Cajun Chicken Pasta: A Bold, Creamy Classic with a Kick

ByEmma

If you’re craving a comforting yet fiery dish that brings the heart of Louisiana to your dinner table, Cajun Chicken Pasta is your answer. This dish combines tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a luscious cream sauce, all seasoned with the bold flavors of Cajun spices. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.

Contents

Ingredients

For the Cajun Seasoning:

  • 2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp onion powder
  • ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • ¼ tsp salt

For the Pasta:

  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 oz (225g) penne or fettuccine pasta
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Cajun Seasoning

In a small bowl, combine all the seasoning ingredients. Mix well and set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Pro Tip: Reserve about ½ cup of the pasta cooking water. It can be used later to adjust the sauce’s consistency.​

3. Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss the chicken pieces with half of the Cajun seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

4. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil and butter. Once melted, add the diced onion and sliced bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.

5. Create the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium. Add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to combine. Sprinkle in the remaining Cajun seasoning and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

6. Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.

7. Finish and Serve

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips for Success

  • Customize the Heat: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning to control the spiciness of the dish.​
  • Add Protein Variety: For a twist, consider adding shrimp or andouille sausage along with the chicken.​
  • Vegetable Variations: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.​
  • Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half or whole milk for the heavy cream, keeping in mind the sauce will be less rich.​

Storage and Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.​
  • Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce if necessary.​

Note: It’s best to avoid freezing this dish, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.​

Final Thoughts

Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful fusion of spicy, creamy, and savory flavors that come together in a harmonious dish. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the bold taste of Cajun cuisine right from your kitchen!

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