Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Whipped Roasted Garlic Feta & Crispy Chickpeas

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Whipped Roasted Garlic Feta & Crispy Chickpeas

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This bold and beautiful dish is everything you love about comfort food—with a spicy, creamy kick. Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Whipped Roasted Garlic Feta & Crispy Chickpeas is a fusion of smoky heat, tangy cream, and crunchy bites all layered over a bed of silky pasta. It’s hearty, nourishing, and totally unforgettable.

Each forkful offers a mix of textures and flavors: tender Cajun-seasoned chicken, ultra-smooth whipped feta with roasted garlic, and golden crispy chickpeas that bring in that satisfying crunch. This meal is perfect for a cozy dinner, a crowd-pleasing weekend gathering, or meal-prepped weekday bowls.


Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

  • Cast Iron Skillet or Heavy Frying Pan: Helps in getting that perfect sear on the chicken with an even heat distribution.
  • Blender or Food Processor: Needed to whip the feta and roasted garlic into a silky, cloud-like spread.
  • Sheet Pan: For roasting chickpeas until they’re golden and crispy.
  • Saucepan: For boiling the pasta to al dente perfection.
  • Mixing Bowls: For seasoning and marinating the chicken and chickpeas.

Each tool contributes to the texture and depth of this recipe. Don’t skip the blender—it’s what gives the whipped feta its irresistible creamy consistency.


Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Whipped Roasted Garlic Feta & Crispy Chickpeas

  • Chicken Breast: Lean and protein-packed, it takes on Cajun seasoning beautifully.
  • Cajun Seasoning: The backbone of flavor in this dish—adds a smoky, spicy depth.
  • Olive Oil: Helps crisp up the chickpeas and cook the chicken evenly.
  • Canned Chickpeas: Roasted until crunchy for a nutty, hearty texture contrast.
  • Spaghetti or Linguine: The base of the dish; absorbs the sauce and ties it all together.
  • Feta Cheese: For that creamy, tangy whipped topping.
  • Roasted Garlic: Mellow and rich, it elevates the whipped feta to gourmet level.
  • Greek Yogurt or Cream Cheese: Adds body and silkiness to the whipped topping.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential for seasoning throughout the process.
  • Fresh Parsley: For a pop of color and a hint of freshness.
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How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Whipped Roasted Garlic Feta & Crispy Chickpeas

Step 1: Roast the Chickpeas to Crunchy Perfection

Drain and rinse canned chickpeas, pat them dry, then toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a sheet pan and roast at 400°F for 30-40 minutes until crispy.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil your pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, saving a little pasta water.

Step 3: Whip the Feta and Garlic

In a blender, combine feta, roasted garlic cloves, Greek yogurt or cream cheese, and a touch of olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Season and Cook the Chicken

Dice the chicken breast and toss with Cajun seasoning. Sear in a hot cast iron skillet with olive oil until golden and cooked through.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Plate the pasta and top it with the Cajun chicken, a generous dollop of whipped feta, and the crispy chickpeas. Garnish with fresh parsley and a dusting of extra Cajun spice if desired.


Serving & Storing Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Whipped Roasted Garlic Feta & Crispy Chickpeas

Serve this dish warm, straight from the skillet or beautifully plated with each component visible. It pairs well with a crisp green salad or grilled vegetables. For an elegant finish, drizzle a little olive oil over the whipped feta and add a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

To store, place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Keep the whipped feta and chickpeas separate if possible to maintain their texture. Reheat pasta and chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, and add the feta and chickpeas fresh before serving.


Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

It has a moderate Cajun heat, but you can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the Cajun seasoning.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely. Penne, fettuccine, or even rotini work well. Just cook it to al dente.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes! Swap feta and Greek yogurt for a plant-based feta alternative and use dairy-free yogurt or cashew cream.

Can I make the whipped feta ahead of time?

Definitely. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a stir before serving.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make your own using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, and black pepper.


Want More Pasta Ideas with a Kick?

If this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta won your heart, you’ll love exploring these flavor-packed recipes too:


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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use cream cheese or Greek yogurt for the whipped feta? Any fun additions or twists?

I love seeing how you make these meals your own. Feel free to ask questions or share tips—we’re all here to cook and grow together!


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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Whipped Roasted Garlic Feta & Crispy Chickpeas

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Whipped Roasted Garlic Feta & Crispy Chickpeas


  • Author: Olivia McKenney
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Whipped Roasted Garlic Feta & Crispy Chickpeas is a bold, comforting dish with a flavorful kick. Juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken is layered over tender pasta and topped with whipped roasted garlic feta and crispy roasted chickpeas. Perfect for cozy nights, meal prep, or impressing dinner guests!


Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast

1 ½ tbsp Cajun seasoning

3 tbsp olive oil

1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed

8 oz spaghetti or linguine

¾ cup feta cheese

4 cloves roasted garlic

3 tbsp Greek yogurt or cream cheese

Salt and pepper to taste

2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley


Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Pat dry chickpeas, toss with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a sheet pan for 30–40 minutes until crispy.

2. Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ¼ cup of pasta water before draining.

3. In a blender or food processor, add feta, roasted garlic, Greek yogurt or cream cheese, and 1 tbsp olive oil. Blend until smooth and creamy.

4. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Toss with Cajun seasoning and 1 tbsp olive oil. Cook in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through.

5. Plate pasta, top with Cajun chicken, a scoop of whipped feta, and a handful of roasted chickpeas. Garnish with parsley and optional extra Cajun spice.

Notes

For crispier chickpeas, ensure they’re completely dry before roasting.

The whipped feta can be made up to 3 days ahead—just stir before using.

Reserve pasta water to thin the whipped feta if needed when mixing.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Pasta
  • Method: Stovetop + Roasting
  • Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 520
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 740mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 7g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: creamy cajun pasta, whipped feta pasta, crispy chickpeas pasta

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