Why Make This Recipe
Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine to your dinner table. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight meals, and it offers a warm, comforting blend of spices, creamy sauce, and tender chicken. This recipe is not only satisfying but also a great way to enjoy a balanced meal with pasta, protein, and vegetables.
How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Directions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken with Cajun seasoning and add to the skillet; cook until browned and cooked through.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing to a simmer.
- Return chicken to the skillet, add cooked pasta, and stir until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with parsley before serving.
How to Serve Cajun Chicken Pasta
Serve Cajun Chicken Pasta hot, directly from the skillet. A sprinkle of chopped parsley on top adds a nice touch of color and freshness. This dish goes well with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
How to Store Cajun Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, reheat it in a skillet on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Tips to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference. You can add more for extra heat or reduce it for a milder flavor.
- Feel free to mix in other veggies, like spinach or zucchini, for added nutrition.
- For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative.
Variation
You can make shrimp Cajun pasta instead of chicken. Simply replace the sliced chicken breasts with shrimp, and cook them for a shorter time until they are pink and opaque.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta you like, such as penne or fettuccine, depending on your preference.
Is Cajun Chicken Pasta spicy?
Yes, it has some spice from the Cajun seasoning, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Can I freeze Cajun Chicken Pasta?
While it’s best fresh, you can freeze leftovers. Make sure to store them in an airtight container and consume them within 2-3 months for the best quality.
Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine to your dinner table, featuring tender chicken, creamy sauce, and pasta.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Season chicken with Cajun seasoning and add to the skillet; cook until browned and cooked through.
- Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and bell peppers; sauté until softened.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing to a simmer.
- Return chicken to the skillet, add cooked pasta, and stir until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper, then garnish with parsley before serving.
Notes
Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference. You can add more for extra heat or reduce it for a milder flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
