Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta: A Flavor Explosion

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Introduction

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta! This recipe combines the bold, zesty flavors of Cajun cuisine with creamy, cheesy goodness, creating a restaurant-quality meal that’s both comforting and exciting. Perfect for those seeking a quick yet impressive dinner option that brings the heat and satisfaction of Southern-inspired cooking.

Ingredients

Pasta and Chicken

  • 400g (14 oz) penne pasta
  • 2 chicken breast fillets
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons (30g) butter

Vegetables

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 4 mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 green onion, chopped

Cream Sauce

  • 250ml (1 cup) heavy cream
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
  • 50g (1/2 cup) grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation and Cooking Instructions

Pasta Preparation

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions.
  3. Drain pasta and set aside, reserving a small amount of pasta water.

Chicken Preparation

  1. Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
  2. Generously season both sides with Cajun seasoning.
  3. Melt butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
  5. Remove chicken from skillet and let rest for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Slice chicken into thin strips.

Vegetable and Sauce Preparation

  1. In the same skillet used for chicken, sauté bell peppers, mushrooms, and green onions.
  2. Cook for 3-4 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender.
  3. Pour in heavy cream.
  4. Add dried basil, lemon pepper, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper.
  5. Simmer sauce for 3-4 minutes until it begins to thicken.

Final Cooking and Serving

  1. Return sliced chicken to the skillet.
  2. Mix chicken with vegetables and cream sauce.
  3. Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet.
  4. Toss pasta to coat evenly with sauce and ingredients.
  5. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
  6. Gently mix to incorporate cheese.
  7. If sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with additional chopped green onions.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 525
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fat: 26g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sodium: 480mg

Cooking Details

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Easy

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Alternatives

  • Replace chicken with shrimp or andouille sausage
  • Use plant-based chicken for a vegetarian option
  • Substitute with tofu for a meat-free version

Dietary Modifications

  • Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free meal
  • Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream
  • Use low-fat cheese for a lighter version

Spice Level Adjustments

  • Increase Cajun seasoning for extra heat
  • Add red pepper flakes for more spiciness
  • Use mild Cajun seasoning for a gentler flavor

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A: Best served fresh, but you can prepare components in advance and combine just before serving.

Q2: How do I store leftovers?

A: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to prevent sauce separation.

Q3: Can I use a different type of pasta?

A: Absolutely! Fettuccine, linguine, or rigatoni work well with this recipe.

Q4: Is this dish very spicy?

A: The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning. Adjust to your heat preference.

Q5: What wine pairs well with this pasta?

A: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Pinot Noir complements the creamy, spicy flavors perfectly.