Introduction

If you’re looking for a delicious one-pot meal that can be whipped up in no time, Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is an ideal choice. This dish combines tender pieces of chicken, pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce with a kick of Cajun spice. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this recipe is simple to follow and packed with flavor.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken breast – 1 pound, diced
Pasta – 8 ounces (penne or your choice)
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Cajun seasoning – 2 tablespoons
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Onion – 1 medium, chopped
Bell pepper – 1, sliced
Heavy cream – 1 cup
Parmesan cheese – ½ cup, grated
Salt and pepper – to taste
Fresh parsley – for garnish (optional)

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning on both sides. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and heat until hot.

Step 3: Brown the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken breasts to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice golden-brown crust. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed to reach desired creaminess.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the creamy Cajun chicken pasta immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Notes

Adjusting Spice Level

Feel free to modify the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference.

Substitutions

You can use shrimp or sausage instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or pasta water to prevent drying out.

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sautéing is a technique used to cook food quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over relatively high heat. In this recipe, chicken pieces are sautéed until golden brown, which helps develop flavor.

Deglazing

Deglazing involves adding liquid to a hot pan to loosen and dissolve browned bits stuck to the bottom. This enhances the flavor of the sauce and is an important step in creating the creamy coating for the pasta.

Simmering

Simmering is cooking food gently in liquid just below boiling. After adding the cream and spices, the mixture is simmered to allow the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich sauce.

Cooking Pasta

When cooking pasta, it is essential to use a large pot of salted boiling water. This ensures even cooking and helps the pasta achieve the desired al dente texture.

Finishing with Cheese

Adding cheese at the end of cooking adds creaminess and depth to the dish. It should be stirred in off the heat to prevent clumping and enhance the overall flavor.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or farfalle.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe includes Cajun seasoning, which adds a mild heat. You can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine them with freshly cooked pasta just before serving for the best texture.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter option, but the sauce’s texture may change.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Conclusion

The Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that offers a perfect blend of flavors and a creamy texture that appeals to many palates. With a quick preparation time and easy cooking methods, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending all day in the kitchen. The versatility of this dish allows it to be customized with different proteins or vegetables, making it a staple in any home cook’s repertoire.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Spicy Shrimp Pasta

Elevate your pasta experience by swapping chicken for shrimp and adding extra spices for a fiery kick that complements the creamy sauce.

Cajun Vegetable Pasta

For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with a mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, creating a hearty dish full of flavor.

Alfredo Chicken Pasta

Combine the creamy elements of Alfredo sauce with the Cajun spices for a rich and indulgent twist on the classic Cajun Chicken Pasta.

One-Pot Cajun Sausage Pasta

Incorporate sliced smoked sausage into the dish for added texture and a smoky flavor, all cooked in one pot for easy cleanup.

Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta

Add a zesty punch by introducing lemon zest and garlic into the sauce, creating a refreshing complement to the creamy Cajun flavors.