Why Make This Recipe
Cajun Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its blend of creamy sauce, juicy chicken, and zesty spices, this dish brings the flavors of Cajun cooking into your kitchen. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The recipe is quick and easy, making it suitable for busy weeknights, while also being indulgently rich enough for special occasions. Plus, who doesn’t love a one-pot dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor?
How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes on each side. Remove and slice.
- In the same skillet, add sliced bell pepper and onion; sauté until soft.
- Add chicken broth and heavy cream; stir and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in the cooked pasta and sliced chicken, mixing until well combined. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley.
How to Serve Cajun Chicken Pasta
Cajun Chicken Pasta is best served hot right after cooking. You can plate it in large bowls or serve family-style in a big dish. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. This pasta pairs nicely with a side salad or garlic bread, making the meal even more delightful.
How to Store Cajun Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You might want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce since it may thicken in the fridge.
Tips to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Make sure to season the chicken well with the Cajun seasoning for maximum flavor.
- You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
- For an extra kick, add some diced tomatoes or a splash of hot sauce.
- When cooking the pasta, make sure it is al dente since it will continue to cook when mixed with the sauce.
Variation
You can customize Cajun Chicken Pasta by adding vegetables like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition. For a different protein, consider using shrimp or sausage, sticking to the Cajun theme.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or spaghetti.
Is this dish spicy?
It has a mild to medium spice level due to the Cajun seasoning. You can reduce the amount for a milder taste.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it is best fresh, you can make it ahead and reheat it later. Just keep in mind the sauce might thicken upon storage.
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Equipment
- large pot
- large skillet
- small bowl
- cutting board
- knife
- wooden spoon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 green bell pepper diced
- 1 red bell pepper diced
- 1 onion diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Cajun Seasoning
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 0.5 tsp salt or to taste
- 0.5 tsp black pepper or to taste
Instructions
Cooking Steps
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- While pasta cooks, combine all Cajun seasoning ingredients in a small bowl.
- Pat chicken dry, then toss with half of the Cajun seasoning.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Add bell peppers, onion, and remaining Cajun seasoning to the same skillet. Cook until vegetables soften, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- Reduce heat to low, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.