Cajun Chicken Pasta
Experience the warmth of Cajun Chicken Pasta, where creamy, spicy goodness wraps around tender pasta and succulent chicken, creating a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces Swap with shrimp for a delightful twist
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Store-bought or homemade
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced For sweetness
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Add more for a punch of flavor
- 1 medium bell pepper, diced Use any color for a cheerful look
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream For a luscious finish; substitute with coconut cream for a lighter option
- ½ cup chicken broth Homemade if you have it!
- 1 cup diced tomatoes Canned is fine; fresh is fantastic!
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish A pop of color and freshness
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Preparing the Chicken
- In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken. Sauté until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. The chicken will turn golden brown, releasing a savory aroma.
Adding the Veggies
- Stir in the diced onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for another 3-5 minutes until the vegetables soften, and the kitchen is filled with mouthwatering scents.
Creating the Sauce
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring until combined. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
Combining Everything
- Add the cooked pasta and diced tomatoes to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring the pasta is coated in the rich sauce.
- Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. You may want to sprinkle in an extra dash of Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick.
Serving the Dish
- Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze for up to a month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to revive the creamy texture.