This Chicken Spicy Cajun Pasta is a zesty dish packed with flavor! The tender chicken pieces are cooked with spicy Cajun seasonings, mixed with creamy pasta to create a perfect balance.
If you love a bit of heat, this dish is for you! I enjoy pairing it with a crisp salad on the side to cool things down a bit. Get ready for a fantastic meal! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne pasta: Penne is great for this dish as its tubular shape holds the sauce well. If you don’t have penne, you can easily swap it for rotini or fusilli for a similar effect.
Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is my go-to for this recipe, but you can use shrimp or even tofu for a protein-packed vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed!
Cajun seasoning: Cajun seasoning gives this dish its kick. If you prefer less heat, go for a mild blend or make your own using paprika, garlic powder, and oregano. You can also try Creole seasoning for a different flavor.
Heavy cream: For a lighter version, substitute half and half or even coconut milk. Just keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds a nice salty flavor to the sauce. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without the dairy!
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken can be tricky, but there are some simple tips to get it just right. First, ensure your chicken strips are evenly sized so they cook at the same rate.
- Heat your skillet well before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the outside quickly.
- Cook the chicken until it’s golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. If unsure, use a meat thermometer—the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy!
How to Make Chicken Spicy Cajun Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This yummy Chicken Spicy Cajun Pasta takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the chicken, followed by around 20 minutes to sauté the veggies and make the sauce while the pasta cooks. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that’s perfect for dinner on a busy weeknight!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook it according to the package directions until it’s al dente (firm but cooked). Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Season the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning until they’re well coated. This is where the spice magic begins!
3. Sauté the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken strips. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re browned and cooked through—check that they’re no longer pink inside. Once nice and golden, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Cook the Veggies:
In the same skillet (don’t wipe it out!), add the diced red bell pepper and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until they become soft and aromatic. The leftover bits from the chicken will add even more flavor!
5. Create the Sauce:
Stir in the tomato paste and optional smoked paprika cooking for another minute. Next, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing it all to a simmer. Let it cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. It should start smelling heavenly!
6. Finish the Sauce:
Add the grated Parmesan cheese into the sauce, stirring well until it melts into a creamy mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to your taste.
7. Combine Everything:
Now, return the cooked chicken back to the skillet and toss it to coat evenly in the sauce. Next, add the cooked pasta and mix everything together well so that the pasta is fully covered in the delicious sauce.
8. Serve It Up:
Take the skillet off the heat. Serve the pasta hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy your flavorful, spicy Chicken Cajun Pasta!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is perfect for this dish, you can use any short pasta like rotini, fusilli, or even bowties. Just adjust your cooking time according to the package instructions for the type of pasta you choose.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half and half or milk, though the sauce may be less creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk or cashew cream works well for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen up the sauce if necessary.
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! You can increase the Cajun seasoning, add some cayenne pepper, or include chopped jalapeños in the sautéed vegetables. Adjust to your heat preference, and enjoy the kick!
