This Chicken Spicy Cajun Pasta is a tasty treat! With juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a splash of spicy Cajun flair, it’s a meal that packs a punch.
It’s so easy to whip up, but it feels fancy! I love how the sauce hugs every piece of pasta, and the spice gives it a fun kick. Perfect for impressing friends or just a cozy night in!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: This type of pasta is perfect for holding the creamy sauce. You can swap it for fusilli or rigatoni if you prefer something different, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work great, but you could also use thighs for extra juiciness. If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try chickpeas or mushrooms instead.
Cajun Seasoning: This gives the dish its signature flavor! You can make your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. For less spice, just cut back on the cayenne.
Heavy Cream: This makes the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter option, use half-and-half or even coconut milk, but keep in mind the flavor may change a bit.
How Do I Keep My Pasta From Sticking Together?
Cooking pasta properly helps prevent stickiness. Here are some tips:
- Use a large pot with plenty of water – about 4-6 quarts for 12 oz of pasta.
- Add a good amount of salt, about 1-2 tablespoons, to flavor the pasta and help it not stick.
- Stir the pasta during the first couple of minutes to keep it from clumping.
- Once cooked, drain it immediately and give it a quick rinse if you’re worried about stickiness. If you plan on mixing with the sauce right away, just toss it in while hot for the best results!
How to Make Chicken Spicy Cajun Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta
For The Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For The Vegetables:
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
For The Sauce:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Spicy Cajun Pasta recipe takes about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the chicken and vegetables, plus 15 minutes to cook the pasta and combine everything into a delicious dish. It’s quick and easy for a weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook The Pasta:
Start by boiling a large pot of water. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. It’s important to not let it sit too long, or it may stick together!
2. Prepare The Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Take your chicken strips and toss them with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken. Cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté The Vegetables:
Now, in the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced onion and red bell pepper. Sauté them for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are softened. Then, add the minced garlic, the rest of the Cajun seasoning, and the crushed red pepper flakes (if you like it spicy!). Cook for another minute until it smells amazing!
4. Make The Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring well to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 3 to 4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and makes the sauce creamy. Taste it and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
5. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and give it a good toss to coat it with the sauce. Finally, add the cooked pasta and mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in that delicious Cajun sauce.
6. Serve It Up:
Once it’s all mixed, serve your Chicken Spicy Cajun Pasta hot! Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bit of color and freshness.
Enjoy your flavorful and spicy Cajun pasta with tender chicken!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great alternative and adds extra fiber. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as it may take a minute or two longer to cook compared to regular penne.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can create your own by mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the ratios to match your taste preference, and you’ll have a flavorful substitute!
Can I Freeze Leftover Pasta?
Yes! To freeze leftovers, let the pasta cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stove.
How Do I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want extra heat, you can add more Cajun seasoning or additional crushed red pepper flakes. Another option is to include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce while cooking!
