Indulge in the perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and comforting flavors with this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Delight. This restaurant-quality dish brings the vibrant taste of Louisiana-inspired cuisine right to your dinner table, combining tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner to share with friends, this recipe promises to deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
Ingredients
US Measurements / Metric Measurements:
- 12 oz / 340g pasta (penne, tagliatelle, or fusilli)
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 minced garlic cloves
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped
- 3/4 cup / 180ml heavy cream
- 1/2 cup / 50g grated Parmesan
- Salt and pepper to taste
- (Optional) Chili flakes
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water if needed later.
2. Season the Chicken
In a medium bowl, coat the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning and a light drizzle of olive oil. Allow the chicken to marinate for 5-10 minutes, letting the spices infuse into the meat.
3. Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for 5-6 minutes, turning occasionally, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. Create the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, sauté minced garlic and chopped bell peppers for 3-4 minutes until they become slightly softened. Pour in the heavy cream, add grated Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper. Simmer the sauce for approximately 3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
5. Combine and Finish
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and add the prepared pasta. Gently mix everything together, ensuring the pasta and chicken are well-coated with the creamy Cajun sauce. Warm the mixture for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Serve and Garnish
Transfer the pasta to serving plates. Sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top and add a pinch of chili flakes if you desire extra heat.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: Cajun-inspired American
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 420mg
Pro Tips
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)
- Fresh herbs make a significant difference – don’t skip the parsley!
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or pasta water to prevent the sauce from breaking.
Enjoy your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Delight – a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and comfort!