Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Creamy Sauce

Have you been on the lookout for a dish that combines a bit of heat with creamy goodness? Look no further than this Cajun Chicken Pasta. It’s a delightful blend of flavors that will transport your taste buds straight to New Orleans. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is sure to impress.

This Cajun Chicken Pasta is anything but ordinary. The tender chicken is seasoned with a zesty Cajun spice mix, adding a kick that pairs beautifully with the rich, creamy sauce. In just under 30 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s bursting with flavor and guaranteed to satisfy.

Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or just looking for something new to try, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your dinner rotation. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a green salad for a complete meal.

Vibrant Flavors of Cajun Cuisine

Cajun Chicken Pasta brings a lively blend of spices and creamy textures to your dining table. This dish is a celebration of flavor, showcasing the unique essence of Cajun cooking. The succulent chicken is seasoned with a zesty Cajun spice mix, adding just the right amount of heat to tantalize your taste buds.

As you dive into a plate of Cajun Chicken Pasta, you can expect a delightful combination of spicy and creamy elements. The dish captures the culinary spirit of New Orleans, making it a delightful meal for any occasion, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.

Ingredients That Shine

The ingredients for Cajun Chicken Pasta are both simple and colorful, allowing the dish to come alive visually and in taste. Penne pasta serves as the perfect base, providing a hearty texture that complements the creamy sauce.

With fresh cherry tomatoes, grated Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of parsley, the dish not only tastes great but also looks impressive on the plate. Each component works harmoniously together, enhancing the overall appeal of this flavorful meal.

Cooking Process: Step by Step

To prepare Cajun Chicken Pasta, begin by cooking the penne pasta until it reaches al dente perfection. While the pasta is bubbling away, season the sliced chicken breasts with a generous amount of Cajun seasoning. This step is crucial as it infuses the chicken with vibrant flavors.

Next, sauté the seasoned chicken in olive oil until it’s golden brown and cooked through. The aroma that fills your kitchen during this step is simply inviting, setting the stage for the creamy sauce that follows. Once the chicken is perfectly cooked, it’s time to create the luscious sauce that will envelop everything.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing it to a gentle simmer. This creamy base forms the heart of the dish, binding all the flavors together in a cohesive and rich sauce.

After simmering for a few minutes, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, and halved cherry tomatoes into the creamy mixture. Stir thoroughly and let everything heat through, allowing the pasta to soak up some of that creamy goodness. This step brings the dish to life, as the colors and aromas meld into a comforting meal.

Finishing Touches

Once everything is well combined and heated, it’s time to finish off the Cajun Chicken Pasta with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until it melts into the creamy sauce, creating a smooth and flavorful coating for the pasta.

To elevate the presentation, garnish the dish with chopped parsley before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also offers a fresh contrast to the rich flavors. The final plating, with its vibrant colors and enticing aroma, is sure to draw everyone in.

Enjoying the Meal

As you sit down to enjoy your Cajun Chicken Pasta, take a moment to appreciate the rustic setting, perhaps with a glass of iced tea beside you. This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings warmth, flavor, and a touch of Southern hospitality to your table.

Serve the pasta immediately for the best taste, and don’t forget to keep some garlic bread on hand to complement the creamy sauce. Each bite offers a delightful balance between the spiciness of the Cajun seasoning and the richness of the creamy sauce, making it a dish that’s sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 chicken breasts, sliced
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season the sliced chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning.
3. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, add heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and cherry tomatoes to the sauce. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2 minutes to heat through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serve: Remove from heat, stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted, and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve immediately.

Cook and Prep Times

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Nutrition Information

• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: 620kcal
• Fat: 32g
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 52g