Why Make This Recipe
Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, creamy sauce, and tender chicken. It’s not just tasty; this meal is also quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners. The mix of colorful vegetables and rich cream makes it a complete dish that everyone will enjoy. Plus, who can resist a plate of pasta?
How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 2 chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., fettuccine or penne)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 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 large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, then add to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, then add heavy cream. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley.
How to Serve Cajun Chicken Pasta
Cajun Chicken Pasta is best served hot. Place a generous portion on a plate, and sprinkle it with freshly chopped parsley and a good amount of grated Parmesan cheese on top. You can pair it with a side salad or bread for a complete meal. Enjoy!
How to Store Cajun Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, store Cajun Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to help loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta
- To make the dish spicier, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning.
- Use any pasta you prefer; just ensure it cooks properly.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream.
Variation
You can add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor. If you want a seafood twist, try using shrimp instead of chicken.
FAQs
Can I make Cajun Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce earlier in the day, then boil the pasta when you’re ready to serve.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half, whole milk, or a plant-based milk with some added flour or cornstarch to thicken it.
Can I freeze Cajun Chicken Pasta?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it. Just make sure to keep it in a sealed container. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces chicken breasts Boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste for spiciness
- 8 oz pasta (e.g., fettuccine or penne) Any preferred pasta can be used
- 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half or plant-based cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking the chicken
- 1 piece bell pepper, sliced Add any color of bell pepper
- 1 piece onion, chopped Yellow or white onion preferred
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic for better flavor
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning
- for serving Parmesan cheese Grated
- for garnish Fresh parsley Chopped, for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, then add to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Cooking
- In the same skillet, add bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet, then add heavy cream. Stir to combine and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens.
Finishing
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing well to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley.