I’m excited to share my recipe for Cajun Chicken Pasta with you! This dish is full of flavor and perfect for a cozy dinner at home. The creamy sauce mixed with spicy Cajun seasoning makes it a favorite for many, and I think you’ll find it’s just as delightful.
When I was younger, my sister Jennifer and I loved cooking together in the kitchen. One of our favorite meals was always pasta. I remember how Mom Eva would help us add special spices, and Dad James would enthusiastically eat whatever we made. Those cooking sessions are some of my favorite memories.
Your Ingredients List
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
- Chopped parsley for garnish
My Go-To Equipment
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Large skillet
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Serving dish
The Simple Steps to Follow
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken slices with Cajun seasoning, then add to the skillet, cooking until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add bell pepper, onion, and garlic, sautéing until soft.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine and allow to simmer for a few minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in the cooked pasta. Mix until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
Healthy Twists on a Classic
You can make Cajun Chicken Pasta healthier by using whole grain penne pasta instead of regular pasta. You could also swap the heavy cream for a light cream or even a plant-based cream, which is great if you’re looking for a lower-calorie option. Adding in some spinach or zucchini can boost the veggie factor too!
Serving Suggestions From My Table
I love serving this dish with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs great with the rich flavors of the pasta. You could also serve it with some garlic bread to mop up the extra sauce – yum!
Getting It Just Right
Make sure to not overcook the chicken. Once it is browned and cooked through, take it out of the skillet to keep it juicy. If you prefer it spicier, increase the Cajun seasoning a touch or add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while cooking.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can reheat it on the stove with a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy texture, or in the microwave for quick access.
Enjoy Every Moment
Cooking together can build wonderful memories. Whether it’s a busy weekday or a relaxing weekend, this Cajun Chicken Pasta is sure to brighten your meal. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share it with those you love!
A Few Common Questions
Can I make Cajun Chicken Pasta ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare many components of this dish ahead of time. You can cook the chicken and pasta earlier in the day. Just combine them with the sauce when ready to serve for the best texture.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can make a quick substitute using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. It will deliver a similar warm flavor.
Can I substitute the chicken in Cajun Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! You can use shrimp, sausage, or even tofu as alternative proteins. Adjust the cooking time based on what you choose to keep everything perfectly cooked.
I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do!
Print
Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A flavor-packed pasta dish with creamy sauce and spicy Cajun seasoning, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken slices with Cajun seasoning, then add to the skillet, cooking until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add bell pepper, onion, and garlic, sautéing until soft.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine and allow to simmer for a few minutes.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in the cooked pasta. Mix until well combined.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
Notes
For a healthier option, use whole grain pasta and light cream. Add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun/Creole
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Keywords: Cajun pasta, chicken pasta, creamy pasta, spicy pasta