Plate of flavorful Cajun chicken pasta garnished with herbs and spices

Cajun Chicken Pasta

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Why Make This Recipe

Cajun Chicken Pasta is a perfect meal for anyone who loves bold flavors and a little bit of spice. It’s simple to make and combines creamy sauce, tender chicken, and hearty pasta. This dish is great for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.

How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:

  • 2 chicken breasts
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Parmesan cheese, for garnish

Directions:

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Season chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  4. Cook chicken in the skillet until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove and slice.
  5. In the same skillet, add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; sauté until soft.
  6. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
  7. Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet; toss to coat in the sauce.
  8. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, adjusting seasoning if needed.
  9. Serve warm, garnished with Parmesan cheese.

How to Serve Cajun Chicken Pasta

Cajun Chicken Pasta is best served warm. You can dish it out onto plates or serve it family-style in a large bowl. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top adds an extra layer of flavor. Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Cajun Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, store Cajun Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a microwave or on the stovetop. You may want to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as it reheats.

Tips to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta

  • Adjust the level of Cajun seasoning to match your taste.
  • For extra protein, consider adding shrimp or sausage to the dish.
  • If you like more vegetables, feel free to add zucchini or spinach.
  • Make sure to not overcook the chicken; it should be juicy and tender.

Variation

You can make a vegetarian version of this dish by swapping chicken for tofu or chickpeas. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and add more vegetables like mushrooms or spinach to keep it hearty.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer. Penne and fettuccine work best, but spaghetti or fusilli are great alternatives too.

Is Cajun Chicken Pasta spicy?
It can be, depending on how much Cajun seasoning you use. If you prefer less heat, use a smaller amount of seasoning or choose a mild blend.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the pasta when you’re ready to serve and combine everything together.

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