Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings a taste of the South directly to your kitchen. With its bold flavors and creamy texture, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering. This recipe is not just flavorful but also easy to make, making it a favorite among many home cooks.
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe stands out because of its delicious mix of spices and the crispy texture of the chicken. The Cajun seasoning adds a unique kick that awakens your taste buds. Plus, it’s a complete meal that combines protein, vegetables, and carbs all in one dish. Making Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a great way to impress your family or guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
How to Make Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 4 tbsp canola oil
- 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 3/4 cup panko
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tbsp flour
- 1 tbsp butter
- Old Bay seasoning
- Paprika
- Cayenne pepper
- 1 small yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 3 minced garlic cloves
Directions
- Heat canola oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook the chicken thighs until they are golden brown on both sides.
- In a separate bowl, mix the panko, Parmesan, and flour together.
- Dip the cooked chicken thighs in milk, then coat them with the panko mixture.
- In another pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced yellow and red bell peppers, red onion, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are soft.
- Sprinkle Old Bay, paprika, and cayenne into the vegetable mix. Stir well to combine.
- Add the crispy chicken to the sautéed vegetables and mix everything together. Serve hot.
How to Serve Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta is best served hot. You can plate it up in bowls and garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh herbs like parsley if desired. Pair it with a fresh salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot.
Tips to Make Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Make sure to cook the chicken until it’s fully cooked and golden brown for the best flavor.
- Adjust the spice levels by changing the amount of cayenne pepper and Old Bay seasoning according to your taste preference.
- You can add other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for more color and nutrition.
Variation
You can switch the chicken thighs for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, you could serve it over pasta or rice for more heartiness.
FAQs
Q1: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A1: Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just reheat when you are ready to serve.
Q2: Is this dish spicy?
A2: Yes, it has a spice kick due to the Cajun seasonings. You can reduce the cayenne if you prefer a milder flavor.
Q3: Can I freeze Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta?
A3: It’s not recommended to freeze this dish as the texture of the chicken may change when thawed. It’s best eaten fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.
