Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a perfect combination of tender chicken, savory spices, and a rich, creamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. This dish brings the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine to your dinner table in a way that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just need a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the Chicken: Begin by slicing the chicken breasts into thin strips. Place the chicken strips in a bowl and toss them with the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and browned on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/4 cup of the pasta water, and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

1. Melt the Butter: In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
2. Add Cream and Broth: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2-3 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly.
3. Season the Sauce: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and onion powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce is thick and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

1. Toss the Pasta: Add the cooked pasta and the reserved pasta water to the skillet with the sauce. Toss the pasta in the sauce until it is evenly coated.
2. Add the Chicken: Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet, tossing them with the pasta and sauce until everything is well combined and heated through.
3. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top of the dish for a fresh, vibrant touch.
4. Serve: Serve the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta immediately, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce.
• Green Salad: A light green salad with a zesty vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta dish.
• Steamed Vegetables: Steamed broccoli or asparagus makes a healthy and tasty side dish.

Beverage Pairings

• White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creamy, spicy flavors of the pasta.
• Iced Tea: For a non-alcoholic option, a glass of refreshing iced tea pairs perfectly with this dish.

Tips for Success

Choosing the Right Pasta

• Fettuccine vs. Penne: Fettuccine is a classic choice for creamy sauces, but penne or rotini also works well to catch the sauce in its ridges.
• Cooking Pasta Al Dente: Cooking your pasta al dente ensures it has the perfect texture to hold up to the rich, creamy sauce.

Adjusting the Heat Level

• Spice Control: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the Cajun seasoning or skip the extra teaspoon in the sauce.
• Add More Heat: For those who love a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce.

Making It Healthier

• Use Light Cream: For a lighter version of the sauce, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and cornstarch.
• Whole Wheat Pasta: Use whole wheat pasta to increase the fiber content of the dish without sacrificing flavor.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a deliciously comforting dish with just the right amount of spice. The tender chicken, coated in Cajun seasoning, pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. Whether you’re a fan of Cajun cuisine or just looking for a new pasta dish to add to your repertoire, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, shrimp or sausage would be great alternatives to chicken in this recipe.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To make it spicier, add more Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce and chicken ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the pasta fresh before serving to ensure it doesn’t become too soft.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cornstarch as a substitute for heavy cream.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Yield: 4

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a perfect combination of tender chicken, savory spices, and a rich, creamy sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. This dish brings the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine to your dinner table in a way that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just need a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Prep Time 10 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 oz penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Extra Parmesan cheese (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
   
2. Season the Chicken:
   Season the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, ensuring they are evenly coated.
   
3. Cook the Chicken:
   In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for 5-7 minutes until they are browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
   
4. Cook the Vegetables:
   In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
   
5. Make the Sauce:
   Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken.
   
6. Combine the Ingredients:
   Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet, along with the cooked pasta. Stir to combine everything and coat with the creamy sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
   
7. Serve:
   Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve the creamy Cajun chicken pasta hot.

Notes

Cajun Seasoning: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your heat preference. You can add more if you like it spicier or reduce it for a milder dish.

Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition.

Pasta: Penne works well, but any pasta shape can be used, such as fettuccine, linguine, or rotini.

Make-Ahead: The sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and add the cooked pasta and chicken.

Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce.