Step 1: Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil and Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
Step 2: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 3: Reduce heat to medium. Add butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to burn.
Step 4: Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a gentle simmer and reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in heavy cream and let it come to a very gentle simmer. Do not boil vigorously.
Step 6: Gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until melted and the sauce is smooth and thickened. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Step 7: While preparing the chicken and sauce, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 8: Add cooked pasta directly to the creamy sauce in the skillet. Toss to coat evenly.
Step 9: Return cooked Cajun chicken to the skillet with the pasta and sauce. Toss again to combine. If needed, add a tablespoon or two of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
Step 10: Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve immediately. Enjoy your creamy garlic parmesan pasta cajun chicken recipe!