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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Flavorful Dinner Delight

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- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips - 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish - Add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini - Use different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar - Substitute chicken with shrimp or sausage - Large skillet for cooking - Pot for boiling pasta - Colander for draining pasta - Measuring cups for accurate portions - Mixing bowl for seasoning chicken {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil. Add 8 oz of fettuccine or penne pasta. Cook according to the package directions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. In a medium mixing bowl, add the sliced chicken strips. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well-coated. This step adds great flavor to your dish. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken strips. Cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is browned and no longer pink inside. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and thinly sliced red bell pepper. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until they soften up. Then, add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for another minute. This will release a lovely aroma into your kitchen. Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir well and bring it to a gentle simmer. Carefully add 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes. This thickens the sauce slightly, making it creamy and rich. Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the mixture. Stir gently to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Then fold in the cooked pasta. Toss everything gently until it's well combined, and the pasta is covered in sauce. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Stir until it melts into the sauce, creating a rich texture. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This final step makes the dish shine with flavor! To get that rich, creamy texture, use heavy cream. It adds a smoothness that makes each bite delightful. For extra creaminess, let the sauce simmer longer. This helps it thicken up nicely. Stir in Parmesan cheese at the end to enhance the creaminess even more. If you want more heat, add extra Cajun seasoning while cooking. You can also toss in some red pepper flakes. For less spice, use less seasoning. You can even omit the Cajun seasoning altogether for a milder flavor. Taste as you go to find your perfect level. Serve your pasta in shallow bowls for a lovely look. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. An extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top makes it even more appealing. Add a few whole cherry tomatoes for a vibrant touch. Enjoy the beauty of your dish as much as the taste! Pro Tips Perfect Pasta: To achieve the ideal pasta texture, cook it until al dente, meaning it should still have a slight bite. This prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce. Seasoning Balance: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, but remember that the Parmesan cheese will also add saltiness. Extra Creaminess: For an even creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of cream at the end of cooking, stirring it in just before serving for a luxurious finish. Veggie Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetables! Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can also make delicious additions, adding both flavor and nutrition to your pasta dish. {{image_4}} You can swap the chicken for shrimp or sausage. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a sweet flavor. Use large shrimp and cook until pink. For sausage, slice it up and brown it in the skillet. Both options bring a tasty twist to the dish. To make this dish meat-free, skip the chicken. Use extra veggies instead. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach work great. Just sauté them as you would the chicken. Add some chickpeas for protein. You still get a creamy and rich pasta without the meat. If you're watching carbs, try using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Both options are low in carbs and gluten-free. Spiralize zucchini or roast spaghetti squash until tender. This way, you keep the creamy sauce while enjoying a lighter meal. To keep your creamy Cajun chicken pasta fresh, follow these steps: - Let it cool completely before storing. - Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss. - Store in the fridge for up to three days. - Label the container with the date to track freshness. When reheating, you want to keep the creaminess intact. Here’s how: - Use a microwave-safe dish with a lid. - Add a splash of chicken broth or cream. - Heat in short intervals, stirring often. - Check for even heating to avoid hot spots. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Follow these steps: - Cool the pasta completely before freezing. - Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. - Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. - Freeze for up to three months. - To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight before reheating. Yes, you can! Fettuccine and penne work great, but feel free to switch it up. You can use spaghetti, rotini, or even farfalle. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the pasta you choose. Fresh pasta cooks faster than dried. Cajun seasoning can be spicy, but it varies. Many blends mix paprika, garlic, onion, and black pepper, with some heat from cayenne. If you prefer less spice, look for a mild blend or use less seasoning. You can always add more later if you want extra heat. Making it gluten-free is easy! Just swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great options made from rice, quinoa, or lentils. Always check the package for cooking times, as they can differ from regular pasta. If you want a lighter sauce, try using half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk works well too. Just remember, using lighter liquids might change the sauce's thickness. You might need to adjust the cooking time to achieve your desired creaminess. In this post, we explored a tasty Cajun chicken pasta dish. We covered key ingredients, optional add-ons, and essential tools. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions and helpful tips for perfect texture and spice levels. Variations allow for customization based on your diet. Plus, we discussed how to store and reheat leftovers properly. Now, you can make this dish your own. Enjoy the creamy flavors and share it with others. Happy cooking!

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Get ready for a burst of flavor with my Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta! This easy recipe combines juicy chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and bold Cajun spices for a dinner everyone will love. Whether you’re cooking for family or a casual gathering, this dish brings the taste of New Orleans right to your table. Join me as I guide you through each step for a deliciously satisfying meal!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Flavor Explosion: This recipe is packed with bold Cajun spices that create a delightful flavor explosion in every bite, making it a standout dish at any dinner table.
  2. Comfort Food: The creamy sauce combined with pasta and chicken makes this dish incredibly comforting, perfect for a cozy night in or when you need a pick-me-up.
  3. Quick and Easy: With a total preparation and cooking time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you want a delicious home-cooked meal without the hassle.
  4. Versatile Ingredients: The ingredients can easily be customized based on what you have on hand, allowing for creativity while still delivering a fantastic meal.

Ingredients

List of Main Ingredients

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips

– 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta

– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 1 medium onion, finely diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup chicken broth

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Optional Ingredients for Customization

– Add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini

– Use different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar

– Substitute chicken with shrimp or sausage

Tools Needed

– Large skillet for cooking

– Pot for boiling pasta

– Colander for draining pasta

– Measuring cups for accurate portions

– Mixing bowl for seasoning chicken

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Pasta

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil. Add 8 oz of fettuccine or penne pasta. Cook according to the package directions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.

Seasoning the Chicken

In a medium mixing bowl, add the sliced chicken strips. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well-coated. This step adds great flavor to your dish.

Browning the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken strips. Cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is browned and no longer pink inside. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate.

Sautéing the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and thinly sliced red bell pepper. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until they soften up. Then, add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for another minute. This will release a lovely aroma into your kitchen.

Preparing the Sauce

Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir well and bring it to a gentle simmer. Carefully add 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes. This thickens the sauce slightly, making it creamy and rich.

Combining Ingredients

Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the mixture. Stir gently to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Then fold in the cooked pasta. Toss everything gently until it’s well combined, and the pasta is covered in sauce.

Finishing Touches

Sprinkle 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Stir until it melts into the sauce, creating a rich texture. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This final step makes the dish shine with flavor!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Creamy Texture

To get that rich, creamy texture, use heavy cream. It adds a smoothness that makes each bite delightful. For extra creaminess, let the sauce simmer longer. This helps it thicken up nicely. Stir in Parmesan cheese at the end to enhance the creaminess even more.

Adjusting Spice Levels

If you want more heat, add extra Cajun seasoning while cooking. You can also toss in some red pepper flakes. For less spice, use less seasoning. You can even omit the Cajun seasoning altogether for a milder flavor. Taste as you go to find your perfect level.

Presentation Tips

Serve your pasta in shallow bowls for a lovely look. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. An extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top makes it even more appealing. Add a few whole cherry tomatoes for a vibrant touch. Enjoy the beauty of your dish as much as the taste!

Pro Tips

  1. Perfect Pasta: To achieve the ideal pasta texture, cook it until al dente, meaning it should still have a slight bite. This prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
  2. Seasoning Balance: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, but remember that the Parmesan cheese will also add saltiness.
  3. Extra Creaminess: For an even creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of cream at the end of cooking, stirring it in just before serving for a luxurious finish.
  4. Veggie Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetables! Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can also make delicious additions, adding both flavor and nutrition to your pasta dish.

Variations

Protein Alternatives

You can swap the chicken for shrimp or sausage. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a sweet flavor. Use large shrimp and cook until pink. For sausage, slice it up and brown it in the skillet. Both options bring a tasty twist to the dish.

Vegetarian Option

To make this dish meat-free, skip the chicken. Use extra veggies instead. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach work great. Just sauté them as you would the chicken. Add some chickpeas for protein. You still get a creamy and rich pasta without the meat.

Low-Carb Version

If you’re watching carbs, try using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Both options are low in carbs and gluten-free. Spiralize zucchini or roast spaghetti squash until tender. This way, you keep the creamy sauce while enjoying a lighter meal.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To keep your creamy Cajun chicken pasta fresh, follow these steps:

– Let it cool completely before storing.

– Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss.

– Store in the fridge for up to three days.

– Label the container with the date to track freshness.

Reheating Tips

When reheating, you want to keep the creaminess intact. Here’s how:

– Use a microwave-safe dish with a lid.

– Add a splash of chicken broth or cream.

– Heat in short intervals, stirring often.

– Check for even heating to avoid hot spots.

Freezing Instructions

If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Follow these steps:

– Cool the pasta completely before freezing.

– Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.

– Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.

– Freeze for up to three months.

– To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can! Fettuccine and penne work great, but feel free to switch it up. You can use spaghetti, rotini, or even farfalle. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the pasta you choose. Fresh pasta cooks faster than dried.

Is Cajun seasoning spicy?

Cajun seasoning can be spicy, but it varies. Many blends mix paprika, garlic, onion, and black pepper, with some heat from cayenne. If you prefer less spice, look for a mild blend or use less seasoning. You can always add more later if you want extra heat.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Making it gluten-free is easy! Just swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great options made from rice, quinoa, or lentils. Always check the package for cooking times, as they can differ from regular pasta.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you want a lighter sauce, try using half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk works well too. Just remember, using lighter liquids might change the sauce’s thickness. You might need to adjust the cooking time to achieve your desired creaminess.

In this post, we explored a tasty Cajun chicken pasta dish. We covered key ingredients, optional add-ons, and essential tools. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions and helpful tips for perfect texture and spice levels. Variations allow for customization based on your diet. Plus, we discussed how to store and reheat leftovers properly.

Now, you can make this dish your own. Enjoy the creamy flavors and share it with others. Happy cookin

- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips - 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 medium onion, finely diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish - Add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini - Use different cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar - Substitute chicken with shrimp or sausage - Large skillet for cooking - Pot for boiling pasta - Colander for draining pasta - Measuring cups for accurate portions - Mixing bowl for seasoning chicken {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Bring it to a rolling boil. Add 8 oz of fettuccine or penne pasta. Cook according to the package directions until it is al dente. This usually takes about 8 to 10 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside. In a medium mixing bowl, add the sliced chicken strips. Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning over the chicken. Make sure each piece is well-coated. This step adds great flavor to your dish. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken strips. Cook for about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally until the chicken is browned and no longer pink inside. When done, remove the chicken from the skillet and place it on a plate. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and thinly sliced red bell pepper. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes until they soften up. Then, add 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for another minute. This will release a lovely aroma into your kitchen. Gradually pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Stir well and bring it to a gentle simmer. Carefully add 1 cup of heavy cream while stirring. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes. This thickens the sauce slightly, making it creamy and rich. Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes to the mixture. Stir gently to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Then fold in the cooked pasta. Toss everything gently until it's well combined, and the pasta is covered in sauce. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta. Stir until it melts into the sauce, creating a rich texture. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. This final step makes the dish shine with flavor! To get that rich, creamy texture, use heavy cream. It adds a smoothness that makes each bite delightful. For extra creaminess, let the sauce simmer longer. This helps it thicken up nicely. Stir in Parmesan cheese at the end to enhance the creaminess even more. If you want more heat, add extra Cajun seasoning while cooking. You can also toss in some red pepper flakes. For less spice, use less seasoning. You can even omit the Cajun seasoning altogether for a milder flavor. Taste as you go to find your perfect level. Serve your pasta in shallow bowls for a lovely look. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color. An extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top makes it even more appealing. Add a few whole cherry tomatoes for a vibrant touch. Enjoy the beauty of your dish as much as the taste! Pro Tips Perfect Pasta: To achieve the ideal pasta texture, cook it until al dente, meaning it should still have a slight bite. This prevents it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce. Seasoning Balance: Always taste your sauce before serving. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed, but remember that the Parmesan cheese will also add saltiness. Extra Creaminess: For an even creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of cream at the end of cooking, stirring it in just before serving for a luxurious finish. Veggie Variations: Feel free to customize the vegetables! Spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms can also make delicious additions, adding both flavor and nutrition to your pasta dish. {{image_4}} You can swap the chicken for shrimp or sausage. Shrimp cooks fast and adds a sweet flavor. Use large shrimp and cook until pink. For sausage, slice it up and brown it in the skillet. Both options bring a tasty twist to the dish. To make this dish meat-free, skip the chicken. Use extra veggies instead. Bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach work great. Just sauté them as you would the chicken. Add some chickpeas for protein. You still get a creamy and rich pasta without the meat. If you're watching carbs, try using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash. Both options are low in carbs and gluten-free. Spiralize zucchini or roast spaghetti squash until tender. This way, you keep the creamy sauce while enjoying a lighter meal. To keep your creamy Cajun chicken pasta fresh, follow these steps: - Let it cool completely before storing. - Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss. - Store in the fridge for up to three days. - Label the container with the date to track freshness. When reheating, you want to keep the creaminess intact. Here’s how: - Use a microwave-safe dish with a lid. - Add a splash of chicken broth or cream. - Heat in short intervals, stirring often. - Check for even heating to avoid hot spots. If you want to save some for later, freezing is a great option. Follow these steps: - Cool the pasta completely before freezing. - Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. - Squeeze out as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. - Freeze for up to three months. - To thaw, move it to the fridge overnight before reheating. Yes, you can! Fettuccine and penne work great, but feel free to switch it up. You can use spaghetti, rotini, or even farfalle. Just make sure to adjust cooking times based on the pasta you choose. Fresh pasta cooks faster than dried. Cajun seasoning can be spicy, but it varies. Many blends mix paprika, garlic, onion, and black pepper, with some heat from cayenne. If you prefer less spice, look for a mild blend or use less seasoning. You can always add more later if you want extra heat. Making it gluten-free is easy! Just swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta. Many brands offer great options made from rice, quinoa, or lentils. Always check the package for cooking times, as they can differ from regular pasta. If you want a lighter sauce, try using half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk works well too. Just remember, using lighter liquids might change the sauce's thickness. You might need to adjust the cooking time to achieve your desired creaminess. In this post, we explored a tasty Cajun chicken pasta dish. We covered key ingredients, optional add-ons, and essential tools. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions and helpful tips for perfect texture and spice levels. Variations allow for customization based on your diet. Plus, we discussed how to store and reheat leftovers properly. Now, you can make this dish your own. Enjoy the creamy flavors and share it with others. Happy cooking!

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Delight

A delicious and creamy pasta dish with Cajun-spiced chicken and fresh vegetables.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
  • 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 piece red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 0.5 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • to taste salt
  • to taste pepper
  • for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the fettuccine or penne and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta in a colander and set it aside.
  • In a medium mixing bowl, toss the sliced chicken strips with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  • In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
  • Gradually pour in the chicken broth, stirring well and bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add the heavy cream while stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, adding the halved cherry tomatoes. Stir to coat all ingredients with the sauce. Fold in the cooked pasta and toss gently.
  • Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and stir until it melts into the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  • Remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

For a beautiful presentation, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with extra Parmesan and whole cherry tomatoes.
Keyword Cajun, chicken, creamy, pasta

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