This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a perfect mix of flavors! With tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a kick of Cajun spices, it’s a dish that warms your heart and delights your taste buds.
You won’t believe how easy it is to whip up! I always feel like a chef when the kitchen smells this good. Pair it with some garlic bread, and you’ve got a winner for dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: While penne is great, you can swap it for other pasta shapes like fettuccine, rotini, or even gluten-free options. Choose what you have on hand!
Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can mix paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to create your own blend. Adjust the spice to your liking!
Chicken: Boneless chicken thighs can be a tasty substitute for breasts. They’re juicy and can add more flavor to your dish.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like coconut or almond milk. Just be mindful of how it affects the creaminess!
Parmesan Cheese: If Parmesan isn’t available, try using Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option. They both add a nice cheesy flavor!
How Do I Get the Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking the chicken just right is key to a great pasta dish! To ensure it stays juicy and tender, follow these tips:
- Cut the chicken into even strips for uniform cooking.
- Let the chicken sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before cooking to help it cook evenly.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if needed, to allow each piece to sear properly.
- Don’t cook on too high heat! Medium-high is perfect to prevent burning while still getting that nice golden crust.
What’s the Best Way to Make the Sauce Creamy?
Making sure your sauce is creamy takes just a few simple steps:
- Always add the cheese once the sauce is simmering; this helps it melt nicely.
- If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash more chicken broth or pasta cooking water. It helps loosen it up!
- Stir continuously after adding the cheese to ensure it’s evenly mixed without lumps.
- For an extra creamy touch, whisk in a bit of cream cheese along with the heavy cream!
Enjoy making your dish, and don’t hesitate to tweak it to make it your own!
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta & Chicken:
- 12 oz (340 g) penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
Seasoning & Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
It takes about 30 minutes to prepare and cook this delicious Cajun chicken pasta. In just half an hour, you can have a flavorful and creamy dinner on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside for later.
2. Season the Chicken:
While the pasta is cooking, take your chicken breast strips and toss them with the Cajun seasoning in a bowl until they are evenly coated. This will give your chicken great flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the pan and cook for about 5-7 minutes or until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add the chopped onions and sliced red bell pepper, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they soften. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the skillet to deglaze it, picking up all those tasty bits. Allow it to simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Then, stir in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce and stir until it’s creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Now, return the cooked chicken back into the skillet and add in the cooked pasta as well. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated with the delicious sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed.
7. Final Touch:
Lastly, cook everything together for an additional 2 minutes to warm through. Once plated, garnish with chopped fresh parsley to add a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your flavorful and creamy Cajun chicken pasta dinner!
FAQ for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice, you can easily substitute it with fettuccine, rotini, or even whole wheat pasta. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or almond milk. Just keep in mind that the sauce might be a bit less thick and creamy!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! If you love heat, feel free to add extra Cajun seasoning or even a dash of hot sauce when cooking. You can also incorporate sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for an added kick!
