Why Make This Recipe
Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that combines the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine with creamy pasta. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special dinner. If you love a bit of spice and layers of flavor, this recipe will be a hit at your table.
How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 8 ounces pasta (e.g., fettuccine or penne)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, then add to the skillet. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and slice the chicken.
- In the same skillet, add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until vegetables are tender.
- Reduce the heat and add heavy cream, mixing well. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in the cooked pasta and sliced chicken, mixing everything together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.
How to Serve Cajun Chicken Pasta
Cajun Chicken Pasta is best served hot. You can plate it in individual bowls or on a large serving dish. Be generous with the Parmesan cheese and add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a nice touch. This dish pairs well with a simple salad or garlic bread.
How to Store Cajun Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before storing. Place it in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet or microwave until hot.
Tips to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Make sure to cook the chicken just enough to keep it juicy.
- You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to match your spice preference.
- Adding other vegetables like mushrooms or spinach can enhance the dish.
Variation
For a lighter twist, you can swap out heavy cream for half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative. You can also use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood version of this dish.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta you like, such as penne, linguine, or even whole wheat pasta.What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own with a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, pepper, and thyme.Can I freeze Cajun Chicken Pasta?
Freezing is not recommended because cream-based sauces can separate when thawed. It’s best to enjoy it fresh!
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts Fresh, boneless skinless
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust according to spice preference
- 8 ounces pasta e.g., fettuccine or penne
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half or non-dairy alternative
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking the chicken
Vegetables
- 1 piece bell pepper, sliced
- 1 piece onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Parmesan cheese For topping
- Fresh parsley For garnish
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Chicken
- Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, then add to the skillet.
- Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Remove and slice the chicken.
Preparing the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté until vegetables are tender.
- Reduce the heat and add heavy cream, mixing well. Let it simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
Combining the Ingredients
- Stir in the cooked pasta and sliced chicken, mixing everything together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve warm, topped with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley.