Description

Cajun Chicken Pasta is a creamy, spicy, and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken seasoned with bold Cajun spices, served with pasta in a rich, creamy sauce. This easy-to-make dish brings together heat, comfort, and indulgence, perfect for dinner or special occasions. It’s quick, satisfying, and customizable to your taste preferences!

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into strips

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 onion, chopped

1 bell pepper, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for extra flavor)

8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Season the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, toss the chicken strips in Cajun seasoning, making sure they are well-coated.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Make the Sauce: Add the chicken broth and tomato paste (if using) to the skillet. Stir well and bring to a simmer. Add the heavy cream and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Combine the Chicken and Pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Finish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through and the sauce is creamy.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Vegetarian version: Skip the chicken and use mushrooms, tofu, or a medley of veggies like zucchini and spinach for a vegetarian option.
Extra spice: Add red pepper flakes or extra Cajun seasoning if you like your dish spicier.
Lighten it up: Use half-and-half or coconut milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the sauce.
Add cheese: For even more richness, add shredded mozzarella or a mix of Italian cheeses to the sauce

Prep Time: 10min
Cook Time: 20min
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Cajun/Creole