This creamy Cajun chicken pasta is a comforting delight! With tender chicken, zesty Cajun spices, and a rich sauce, it’s a meal that packs a flavor punch!
You’ll love how quick this dish comes together. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great here for quick cooking. If you prefer a different protein, shrimp or even sausage can work nicely. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Cajun Seasoning: This adds a flavorful kick! If you don’t have it, mix cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for a homemade version. Taste as you go to find your preferred spice level.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like coconut or almond milk. Keep in mind that this may alter the thickness slightly.
Pasta: Penne or fettuccine are both perfect choices. If you’re gluten-sensitive, try gluten-free pasta alternatively, which should cook similarly.
How Do I Ensure the Sauce is Creamy and Not Lumpy?
Getting that smooth, creamy sauce requires a few careful steps:
- When you add the cheese, ensure the heat is low to prevent it from clumping. Stir in slowly until fully melted.
- For the cream, make sure to whisk the mixture well after pouring in the chicken broth, combining everything before it simmers.
- Keep stirring while it simmers to help keep it creamy and prevent sticking.
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus extra for sprinkling)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Vegetables:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta:
- 8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
Finish & Garnish:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare. With 10 minutes for cooking the pasta and about 20 minutes for sautéing and combining ingredients, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling water in a large pot. Once it’s bubbling, add your pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside, but keep it warm.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. Then, season them with the Cajun seasoning. Mix it well so every piece is coated.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips to the pan. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes or until they’re golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the butter. After it melts, toss in the minced garlic, chopped onion, and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are tender and fragrant.
5. Create the Sauce:
Now, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, mixing everything together. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
6. Add Cheese and Season:
Next, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Taste the sauce and season with salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning according to your preference.
7. Combine Chicken and Pasta:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together. Make sure the pasta gets well coated with that delicious sauce.
8. Finish and Serve:
Cook the mixture in the skillet for another 1-2 minutes to let the flavors blend nicely. Then, transfer to serving plates and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Enjoy your delightful creamy Cajun chicken pasta—it’s a wonderful combination of flavors that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best method is to place the chicken in the refrigerator overnight or use the cold water method: seal it in a plastic bag and submerge it in cold water until thawed. Pat dry before seasoning and cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to help revive the sauce’s creaminess.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you love heat, feel free to add extra Cajun seasoning or even a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra kick while cooking. You can also adjust the spice level in each serving by adding hot sauce when serving.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce may not be as rich. For a dairy-free alternative, try using coconut milk or a non-dairy creamer, but be aware that coconut milk may impart a subtle coconut flavor.
