Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful, creamy dish with perfectly seasoned chicken, a zesty Cajun sauce, and tender pasta. This dish is rich in flavor, with the right balance of heat and creaminess, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. It’s quick and easy to make, requiring less than 30 minutes, and can be customized to suit your spice preferences.
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet
- 1 large pot (for boiling pasta)
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Knife
- 1 pasta strainer or colander
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 2 medium chicken breasts about 1 lb, boneless and skinless
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 8 oz pasta penne, fettuccine, or your choice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water optional, for adjusting sauce consistency
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Season with Cajun seasoning, ensuring it’s evenly coated.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a little oil. Cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking for 2-3 minutes until softened. Stir in additional Cajun seasoning, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat it in the sauce.Then add the cooked chicken. Mix until everything is evenly combined. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency.
- Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning if desired. Serve the pasta with a sprinkle of Parmesan and fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a dairy-free version, use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and skip the Parmesan.
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning or cayenne pepper to suit your taste.
- To make this a one-pan meal, add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach when sautéing the onions and garlic.
- For an extra cheesy touch, top with more grated Parmesan or mozzarella just before serving.