Why You’ll Love This Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
- Flavor Explosion: The Cajun seasoning packs a punch with smoky, spicy goodness.
- Creamy and Dreamy: A luscious sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.
- Easy to Make: One pan and a few simple steps are all it takes.
Tools You’ll Need
- Whisk
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Medium pot (for cooking pasta)
- Tongs or spatula
Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Description
This Cajun Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food, loaded with creamy, spicy, and savory flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich Cajun-seasoned sauce come together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
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Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
- Toss the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the bell peppers and sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and stir until everything is evenly combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly undercook the pasta so it finishes cooking in the sauce.
- Make it Your Own: Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for extra veggies.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to get a good sear.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use a dairy-free heavy cream substitute and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Q2: Can I use another type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! Penne, linguine, or bowtie pasta work great with this dish.
Q3: Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
A: While it’s best made fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and reheat it gently when ready to serve.
Conclusion: A Creamy, Spicy Delight!
This Cajun Chicken Pasta is a restaurant-quality dish you can easily make at home. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a meal that’s sure to impress. Give it a try, and let the bold Cajun flavors spice up your dinner table!
Did you make this recipe? Don’t forget to leave a review and share your photos on social media. We’d love to see your creations!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 520
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fat: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Enjoy every creamy, spicy, and satisfying bite of this Cajun Chicken Pasta!