Cajun Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s a delightful journey into the heart of Louisiana cuisine. Bursting with bold flavors and creamy textures, this dish marries the smoky spice of Cajun seasoning with tender chicken and al dente pasta. It’s the perfect solution for a weeknight dinner or a lively gathering with friends. Trust me, your taste buds are in for a treat with every bite!
Why you’ll love this dish
Why make Cajun Chicken Pasta? This dish checks all the boxes for a home-cooked favorite. It’s quick to whip up, budget-friendly, and absolutely delicious! The creamy sauce envelops flavorful chicken and veggies, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Imagine serving this at a family dinner or a casual get-together—everyone will be coming back for seconds!
"This Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe has become a staple in our home! It’s not only vibrant and filling but also so easy to prepare. We absolutely love the kick from the Cajun seasoning!" – A satisfied home cook.
Step-by-step overview
Let’s break down how this divine dish comes together. First, you’ll cook your penne pasta to perfection. Then, the real magic happens in your skillet. A quick sauté of onions and bell peppers sets the stage for your chicken, seasoned with that irresistible Cajun blend. Finally, a rich cream sauce binds everything together before you indulge in a satisfying bowl of deliciousness.
What you’ll need
Gather these items before you begin:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (you can use red, yellow, or green!)
- 1 onion, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
You can easily swap out the penne for another pasta type if you prefer!
Directions to follow
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Sauté the chopped onion and sliced bell pepper until soft.
- Add the sliced chicken and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through.
- Pour in the heavy cream and mix in the Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly over low heat.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed for your palate.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
Best ways to enjoy it
Cajun Chicken Pasta is best enjoyed warm, right out of the skillet. To elevate your presentation, serve it in shallow bowls topped with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a few fresh parsley leaves. Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce. For those who like a little kick, serve it with hot sauce on the side!
Storage and reheating tips
To keep your Cajun Chicken Pasta fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container. It will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stove over low heat to maintain that creamy texture. If needed, add a splash of cream or a little water to help loosen the sauce.
Pro chef tips
For an even richer flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Cajun seasoning and olive oil for an hour before cooking. Also, cooking your vegetables until just tender ensures they retain a bit of crunch. If you want to make the dish even creamier, feel free to increase the amount of heavy cream!
Creative twists
Feel free to get creative with your Cajun Chicken Pasta! Try adding shrimp for a seafood twist or tossing in some spinach for extra nutrition. For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream with a low-fat version or use Greek yogurt. Don’t hesitate to play with different types of cheese or even add some diced tomatoes for a fresh pop of flavor.
Common questions
How long does it take to prepare?
This recipe can be on your table in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is a wonderful option, you can substitute it with fettuccine, rotini, or whatever pasta you have on hand.
Is there a vegetarian option?
Certainly! You can substitute the chicken with sautéed mushrooms and zucchini, while keeping the Cajun seasoning for that authentic flavor kick.
Now you’re fully equipped to create this delightful Cajun Chicken Pasta at home. Enjoy every spicy, creamy bite!
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz penne pasta Can substitute with another pasta type.
- 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with low-fat cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Feel free to use different types of cheese.
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 pieces chicken breasts, sliced Marinate in Cajun seasoning for richer flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste.
- 1 bell pepper, sliced bell pepper, sliced You can use red, yellow, or green.
- 1 piece onion, chopped Sauté until soft.
Cooking Additions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing vegetables.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust seasoning as needed.
- for garnish Fresh parsley Chopped, for serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
- Sauté the chopped onion and sliced bell pepper until soft.
Cooking
- Add the sliced chicken and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through.
- Pour in the heavy cream and mix in the Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly over low heat.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed for your palate.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.