Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta – Spicy, Flavorful & Easy Weeknight Dinner!
Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delicious, creamy, and spicy dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce. This recipe is perfect for those who love bold, zesty flavors and want a quick yet impressive meal. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this Cajun Chicken Pasta is sure to be a hit. With a perfect balance of spices, cream, and pasta, it’s a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or protein. Let’s dive into the details and learn how to make this mouthwatering dish!
Recipe Preparation Equipment
To make Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’ll need the following equipment:
- Large skillet or frying pan
- Pot for boiling pasta
- Colander for draining pasta
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Whisk (for the sauce)
- Tongs (for handling chicken)
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Cajun Chicken Pasta (serves 4):
For the Cajun Seasoning:
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) penne or fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into thin strips)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 medium onion (finely chopped)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Easy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Prepare the Cajun Seasoning
In a small bowl, mix all the Cajun seasoning ingredients (paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt). Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with half of the Cajun seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Sauté the garlic, onion, and bell peppers for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter, heavy cream, chicken broth, and the remaining Cajun seasoning. Whisk until well combined. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to heat through.
Variations
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with mushrooms or tofu.
- Seafood Twist: Use shrimp or crawfish instead of chicken.
- Extra Veggies: Add zucchini, spinach, or broccoli for more nutrition.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta.
Cooking Note
- Adjust the cayenne pepper to control the spice level.
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to hold up in the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Helpful Tips
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Let the sauce simmer gently to avoid curdling the cream.
Tips for the Best Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Marinate the chicken in Cajun seasoning for 30 minutes for extra flavor.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency if needed.
- Use a mix of colorful bell peppers for a vibrant dish.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 550
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Carbs: 45g
FAQs
1. Can I make Cajun Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, but store the sauce and pasta separately. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?
Yes, but homemade seasoning allows you to control the spice level and flavor.
Conclusion
Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful, creamy, and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its bold spices, tender chicken, and rich sauce, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make in just 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Don’t forget to customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy every bite!
Let me know if you’d like me to tweak anything or add more details!
