Looking for a dish that combines a creamy sauce with a spicy kick? This creamy Cajun chicken pasta recipe is just what you need! With tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a luscious sauce, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this dish will surely impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into strips
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 20 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the recipe) contains approximately 600 calories, 35g fat, 45g carbohydrates, and 40g protein. This is based on standard ingredient measurements.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sliced bell pepper; sauté until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the chicken strips to the skillet and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
- Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version. Additionally, shrimp can replace chicken for a seafood twist, and any pasta shape can be used based on your preference.
Serving and Pairings
This creamy Cajun chicken pasta pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of white wine also complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. This dish can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente when mixed with the sauce.
- Avoid burning the garlic; add it after the onions and peppers have softened.
- Don’t skip seasoning the chicken; it enhances the overall flavor.
- Ensure the heat is low when adding cream to prevent curdling.
- Mix pasta and sauce thoroughly to ensure even coating.
- Be mindful of salt; Cajun seasoning can be quite salty.
- Don’t rush the simmering process; it helps develop the sauce’s flavor.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh herbs for garnish to brighten the dish.
- Experiment with different types of pasta for varied textures.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Try adding spinach or kale for added nutrition.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning to match your spice tolerance.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately. Combine them just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
What can I use instead of chicken?
Shrimp or sausage can be great alternatives, providing a different flavor profile while keeping the dish delicious.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spiciness depends on the Cajun seasoning used. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste preferences.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, you can use other cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda, but they will change the flavor of the dish slightly.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own by mixing paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme as a substitute.
Conclusion
This creamy Cajun chicken pasta recipe is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that will satisfy your cravings. Easy to prepare and versatile, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy your cooking and the delicious results!
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast cut into strips
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup parmesan cheese grated
- 1 bell pepper sliced
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sliced bell pepper; sauté until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add the chicken strips to the skillet and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and parmesan cheese.
- Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the sauce.
