This creamy Cajun chicken pasta is a tasty, quick meal that brings a hint of spice to your dinner table. It’s loaded with tender chicken, pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce.
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip this up! I love to top it with some fresh herbs, and it always brings smiles around the dinner table. Who doesn’t love pasta? 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne works well for this dish, but feel free to use any pasta you prefer, like fusilli or farfalle. Whole wheat or gluten-free pasta make good alternatives if you’re looking for healthier options.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a solid choice. You can substitute with thighs for a juicier bite, or even shrimp or tofu for a different protein option if you prefer.
Cajun Seasoning: You can buy Cajun seasoning or make your own using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Adjust the spices to suit your taste! If you want milder flavors, try using less seasoning.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or even coconut milk. Just remember, this may alter the flavor a bit. Dairy-free alternatives are also available for those with dietary restrictions.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken just right gives the dish great flavor and texture. Here’s how to ensure perfectly cooked chicken:
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces so they cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed to get that nice browning.
- Cook over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes until no longer pink; this ensures a juicy inside.
Letting the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking helps retain moisture, which is key to a delicious dish!
What’s the Best Way to Make a Creamy Sauce?
A creamy sauce is crucial for this pasta! Here’s how to achieve that perfect creaminess:
- Start by simmering the chicken broth and heavy cream together; this helps meld the flavors.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually; it thickens the sauce as it melts.
- Don’t forget to season well; salt and pepper balance the creaminess!
Let the sauce simmer for a minute or two to help it cling to the pasta for a satisfying bite!
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta or your favorite pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for depth)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick, easy, and full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once it’s ready, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, season the bite-sized chicken pieces with the Cajun seasoning so they are coated well. This will give your chicken that delicious, spicy flavor!
3. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 2 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it smells fragrant. This adds great flavor to the dish!
5. Add the Bell Peppers:
Next, toss in the sliced red and green bell peppers. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften and brighten in color.
6. Make the Sauce:
If you’re using tomato paste, stir it in now. Then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. The sauce will start to thicken nicely.
7. Finish the Sauce:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet and stir until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste your sauce and add salt and black pepper according to your preference.
8. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it with the sauce. Then, add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with that creamy Cajun goodness.
9. Let It Warm Through:
Allow the entire dish to cook together for another 1-2 minutes to let all the flavors meld together nicely.
10. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the pasta in bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for that perfect finishing touch. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful dish!
That’s it! You’ve made a delicious Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta that’s sure to impress. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great, you can swap it for any pasta shape you enjoy, such as fusilli, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for your chosen pasta.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love extra heat, consider adding more Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken or sauce. You can also include diced jalapeños or hot sauce to the mix for an added kick!
Can I Meal Prep This Dish?
Yes! You can cook and prepare the pasta and sauce ahead of time, then store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove, combining the pasta with the sauce as needed.
What Should I Serve This Dish With?
This pasta pairs well with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a heartier meal. You can also serve it with steamed vegetables for a lighter side. Enjoy!
