Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
If you’re looking for a fun and flavorful dinner idea, Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice! This dish combines tender chicken, rich cream, and a kick of Cajun spice to create a comforting meal that everyone will love. It’s great for a weeknight family dinner or a special occasion.
Why Make This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons to try Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta! First, it’s quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy evenings. Second, the combination of spices adds delicious flavors that can make even simple ingredients stand out. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, so there’s less cleanup afterward. Lastly, it can be customized with various veggies or protein options to suit your taste.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is straightforward to make. Follow these easy steps to create a delicious meal.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Directions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- While the oil is heating, season both sides of the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest for a few minutes.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the fettuccine pasta according to package directions.
- Once the pasta is al dente, drain it and reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
- Slice the rested chicken into thin strips.
- Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency.
- Stir in the chopped parsley and lemon juice, then add the sliced chicken on top of the pasta.
- Toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Serve this delicious pasta in bowls with extra chopped parsley or grated Parmesan on top. You can also add a slice of garlic bread on the side for a complete meal. Pair it with a fresh side salad for a perfect balance.
How to Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. You may need to add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
Tips to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the Cajun seasoning for a few hours before cooking.
- Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or spinach to the dish for added nutrition.
- Adjust the spice level by using more or less Cajun seasoning, according to your preference.
Variation
You can easily change this recipe by using shrimp or sausage instead of chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Adding different types of pasta, like penne or rotini, works great too!
FAQs
1. Can I use whole wheat pasta?
Yes! Whole wheat pasta is a healthier option and works well in this recipe.
2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream substitute if you want a lighter option.
3. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
Enjoy making and sharing this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta! It’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
