why make this recipe
Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delicious blend of creamy sauce, spicy seasonings, and tender chicken that brings a taste of Louisiana to your kitchen. It’s a perfect dish for those who love bold flavors paired with comforting pasta. Quick to make and satisfying, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with a home-cooked meal. Everyone will enjoy the rich flavors and hearty ingredients that make this dish a favorite.
how to make Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 8 ounces pasta (like penne or fettuccine)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup bell peppers (sliced)
- 1 cup onions (sliced)
- 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 bowl, coat chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes per side. Remove and slice.
- In the same skillet, add sliced bell peppers and onions, and sauté until tender.
- Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add heavy cream and mix well.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken back to the skillet. Toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
how to serve Cajun Chicken Pasta
Serve Cajun Chicken Pasta hot in bowls or on plates. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley for added flavor and color. This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or some warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
how to store Cajun Chicken Pasta
To store leftovers, let the Cajun Chicken Pasta cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore the sauce’s creaminess.
tips to make Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in Cajun seasoning for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Add your favorite vegetables, such as zucchini or spinach, for more nutrition and color.
- If you like it spicier, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
variation
You can try a shrimp version by replacing the chicken with shrimp. Simply season and cook the shrimp until pink and combine them with the pasta and sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other types of pasta?
A: Yes, any pasta shape works! Try different ones like spaghetti or fusilli based on your preference.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: It has a moderate spice level from the Cajun seasoning. You can reduce the amount if you prefer milder flavors.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the sauce and chicken in advance and then combine with pasta just before serving.
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust based on spice preference.
- 8 ounces pasta (like penne or fettuccine) Any pasta shape works.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth Add a splash when reheating.
- 1 cup bell peppers (sliced)
- 1 cup onions (sliced)
- to taste Salt and pepper
- to serve Parmesan cheese For serving.
- for garnish Fresh parsley
Instructions
Cooking
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, coat chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes per side. Remove and slice.
- In the same skillet, add sliced bell peppers and onions, and sauté until tender.
- Stir in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add heavy cream and mix well.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken back to the skillet. Toss to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and parsley.
- This dish pairs well with a simple side salad or warm garlic bread.