Why Make This Recipe
Cajun Chicken Pasta is a fantastic dish that brings together the bold flavors of Cajun spices with the comforting taste of creamy pasta. It’s a quick and simple meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you want something delicious. The blend of spices with chicken, vegetables, and a creamy sauce makes it a crowd-pleaser for family and friends. Plus, it’s easy to customize, so you can make it just the way you like!
How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Slice the chicken and add it back to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss to combine and heat through.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley.
How to Serve Cajun Chicken Pasta
Serve Cajun Chicken Pasta hot, right after cooking. Garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. This dish pairs well with garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Cajun Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to keep it creamy.
Tips to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Feel free to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
- You can add extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for more nutrition and flavor.
- For a healthier option, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use whole wheat pasta.
Variation
You can make a shrimp version of this dish by swapping chicken for shrimp. Just cook the shrimp until pink and tender before adding it to the sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you like! Fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta would work well.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the ingredients ahead of time but it’s best to cook the pasta and sauce fresh to enjoy the best flavor and texture.
3. Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?
Absolutely! You can omit the chicken and add more vegetables, or use plant-based protein for a delicious vegetarian Cajun pasta.
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 breasts chicken Boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust based on spice preference
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute half-and-half for a lighter option
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese For a creamy texture
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cooking the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Making the Sauce
- In the same skillet, add the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.
- Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
- Add the Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Combining Ingredients
- Slice the chicken and add it back to the skillet along with the cooked pasta. Toss to combine and heat through.
- Serve garnished with fresh parsley.