Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: A Flavorful Delight

Introduction

Are you looking to spice up your dinner routine with a dish that combines rich, creamy flavors with a hint of Cajun spice? Look no further! Our Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe is the perfect blend of bold and comforting, making it an instant favorite. In this blog post, we’ll explore what makes this dish so special and provide you with all the details you need to recreate it in your own kitchen. Let’s dive into the world of Cajun cuisine and discover how to make this mouthwatering pasta!

Ingredients

To make this delicious Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 16 oz. penne pasta
• 2 chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp. Cajun seasoning (divided)
• 1 tsp. onion powder
• 1 tsp. garlic powder
• 1 tsp. dry parsley
• 1/2 tsp. paprika
• 1/2 tsp. Old Bay seasoning
• 1 tbsp. oil
• 1 tbsp. unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1/2 medium bell pepper, chopped
• 4 oz. diced tomatoes
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 tsp. minced garlic
• 4 oz. cream cheese
• 1 tsp. chicken bouillon
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese

How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Follow these steps to create a delicious and creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta:

1. Cook the Pasta:
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
   • Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Season the chicken breasts with 1 tbsp. of Cajun seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, dry parsley, paprika, and Old Bay seasoning.
   • Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
   • Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into thin strips.
3. Make the Sauce:
   • In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the diced tomatoes and minced garlic, and cook for another 2 minutes.
   • Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
   • Add the cream cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
   • Stir in the remaining 1 tsp. Cajun seasoning, chicken bouillon, and parmesan cheese.
   • Simmer the sauce until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
4. Combine:
   • Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet with the sauce.
   • Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated with the sauce.
   • Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve:
   • Garnish with additional parmesan cheese and fresh parsley if desired.
   • Serve immediately and enjoy your creamy Cajun chicken pasta!

Helpful Tips

• Cooking Pasta: Make sure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to hold up well in the creamy sauce.
• Chicken: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked through; it should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water to achieve the desired consistency.

Substitutions/Variations

• Protein: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
• Vegetables: Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra veggies.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to control the heat. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or rigatoni.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers? A: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to keep the sauce creamy.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the sauce and chicken (without the pasta) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before combining with freshly cooked pasta.

Conclusion

Our Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe not only brings the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine to your dinner table but also offers a creamy, comforting experience that will delight your taste buds. By following our easy steps, helpful tips, and variations, you can customize this dish to suit your preferences and impress your family and friends. So why wait? Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal that’s sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking!