This Chicken Spicy Cajun Pasta is a mouthwatering dish bursting with flavors! It’s got tender chicken pieces mixed with a creamy sauce and a kick of Cajun spices that will make your taste buds dance.
I love how easy it is to whip up this pasta for dinner. Add some garlic bread on the side, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress without a lot of fuss!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This tubular pasta holds onto the sauce well. You can easily switch this with rotini or fusilli if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Chicken: I love using chicken breasts for their lean quality. If you want a quicker option, shredded rotisserie chicken works great. You can also use turkey if you want something lighter.
Cajun Seasoning: For a homemade touch, mix paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme. If you’re short on one spice, don’t worry—it’s flexible!
Heavy Cream: This gives the sauce a rich texture. You can substitute it with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream for a lighter or dairy-free dish.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese always tastes better! If you’re out, Pecorino Romano is a close substitute. Nutritional yeast is a good vegan option for the cheesy flavor.
How Do I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken just right can be tricky, but it’s key for this recipe. Here’s how to do it:
- Cut the chicken breasts into thin slices for quicker cooking and even heat distribution. Aim for about 1/2 inch thick.
- Heat the oil properly before adding the chicken. If the oil isn’t hot, the chicken won’t sear and will lose moisture.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet! Cook in batches if necessary. This allows the chicken to brown nicely instead of steaming.
- Cook until no longer pink inside—5-7 minutes should do it, but check with a meat thermometer for 165°F (74°C) for safety.
Using these tips will help ensure your chicken is tender and flavorful, making your pasta dish even better!
Chicken Spicy Cajun Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Chicken:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 large chicken breasts, thinly sliced
Cooking Essentials:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Flavor Makers:
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
Rich Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Chicken Spicy Cajun Pasta takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend around 10 minutes on prep and about 20 minutes cooking. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the sliced chicken with the Cajun seasoning, making sure each piece is well coated. This adds lots of flavor!
3. Brown the Chicken:
Put the seasoned chicken in the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is browned and fully cooked. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, if needed, add a little more oil. Then, add the minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant and the onion is translucent. Now it’s time to add the diced red bell pepper, cooking for another 2 minutes.
5. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
6. Finish the Sauce:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes if you like extra heat. Continue to simmer until the sauce is creamy and has thickened. Don’t forget to season with salt and black pepper to taste!
7. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, stirring everything together. Then, add the cooked penne pasta and toss well to combine, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious sauce!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve this creamy, spicy Cajun pasta immediately. Top with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your tasty meal!
Can I Substitute the Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works wonderfully, you can use any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Is There a Way to Make This Dish Spicier?
If you’re looking for extra heat, boost the Cajun seasoning or add more crushed red pepper flakes. You can also toss in some diced jalapeños or hot sauce when cooking the chicken for an added kick!
How Do I Store Leftover Pasta?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to eat, cook the pasta and combine everything to heat through!
