Cajun Chicken Pasta
A comforting blend of spicy Cajun flavors with creamy sauce and tender chicken, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine) Cooked al dente for the perfect bite.
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced Fresh, high-quality chicken will make all the difference.
Seasoning and Liquids
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning You can make your own or pick up Tony Chachere’s for an authentic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Extra virgin is best for a richer taste.
- 1 cup heavy cream For that decadent creaminess.
- 1 cup chicken broth Homemade is ideal, but low-sodium store-bought works fine too.
Vegetables
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced Mix colors for a pop of visual appeal and added nutrients.
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped Sweet or yellow onions are preferred for sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic gives the best aroma and flavor.
Finishing Touches
- to taste salt and pepper Always taste as you go!
- Parmesan cheese, for serving A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan elevates the dish immensely.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the sliced chicken and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, sliced bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until they become tender.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine everything. Bring to a gentle simmer for about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the cooked pasta and the chicken back into the skillet, mixing everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Plate the dish hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Leftovers can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream to regain creaminess. Variations include using shrimp or sausage instead of chicken, or making it vegetarian with mushrooms or tofu.