Ready in: 30 minutes · Serves: 4 · Technique: Sautéing · Storage: Store leftovers for up to three days.Quick Answer
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta blends spicy and creamy flavors for a comforting holiday meal.If you're looking to add some excitement to your dinner table this season, try this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. With the festive buzz in New York City and the cool air inviting hearty comfort food, this dish marries warmth and flair perfectly. Imagine walking past the twinkling lights of the city, coming home to a spicy, creamy bowl of pasta that feels just right for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Deliciously creamy and spicy flavor profile that warms you up on chilly evenings.
- Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights or festive gatherings.
- Versatile dish that allows for substitutions to suit dietary preferences, such as vegetarian options.
- Leftovers make for a convenient and satisfying lunch or dinner option for the next few days.
- A delightful aroma that fills your kitchen, enhancing the cooking experience.
Ingredients
For this delicious Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, you'll need:
Pasta
- 400g (14 oz) of penne pasta
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 200g (7 oz) of cherry tomatoes, halved
Sauce
- 200ml (¾ cup) heavy cream
- 100g (3.5 oz) of grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Optional: a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta (Step-by-Step)
Follow these easy steps to create a warm and flavorful bowl of pasta that's perfect for any meal!
Step 1: Boil the Pasta
In a large pot of salted water, bring your penne to a boil. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain, reserving about a cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the sliced chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning until fully coated. Add them to the skillet, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Enjoy the spicy aroma filling your kitchen!
Step 3: Add Vegetables
Once the chicken is beautifully browned, stir in the chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the veggies to soften slightly. The combination creates a comforting base with a delightful contrast in sweetness.
Step 4: Mix in the Cream
Reduce the heat to medium, and pour in the heavy cream. Stir until the mixture is glossy and creamy, then toss in the cherry tomatoes. Let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the drained penne to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess. Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated.
Step 6: Season to Taste
Taste your pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for additional heat if desired.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a vibrant pop of color and freshness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skip the Salt in the Pasta Water: This is key for seasoning your pasta efficiently.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Keep an eye on those chicken strips to prevent dryness; you want them tender and juicy.
- Not Reserving Pasta Water: That starchy water can save your sauce if it thickens too much.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- If you want to amp up the flavor, consider marinating your chicken in the Cajun seasoning for an hour before cooking.
- Swap out the penne for another pasta type like fettuccine or farfalle to mix things up.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with mushrooms or a mix of seasonal vegetables.
Variations
- Substitute chicken with shrimp or sausage for different protein options.
- Add a handful of spinach or kale for a nutrient boost.
- Use light cream or half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
How to Serve
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Pair with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Add grated cheese on top before serving for extra flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can cook the chicken and sauté the vegetables in advance and store them separately until ready to combine with pasta.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply pop it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the sauce's creamy texture.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but the cream may change texture upon thawing. Consider freezing without the cream and adding it fresh when serving.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
During my testing, I found that letting the pasta soak up the flavors of the sauce for just a few minutes really enhances the dish. Also, nothing beats the aroma that spreads through the kitchen as you sauté the veggies and chicken together-a reminder of why I love cooking, especially during these cozy holiday months!Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 4 servings · Serving Size: 1 bowlNutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~650 calories · 30g protein · 60g carbs · 30g fat
Recipe by:
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot of salted water, bring your penne to a boil. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain, reserving about a cup of pasta water.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the sliced chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning until fully coated. Add them to the skillet, cooking for about 5–7 minutes until golden brown.
- Once the chicken is beautifully browned, stir in the chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté for another 3–4 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium, and pour in the heavy cream. Stir until the mixture is glossy, then toss in the cherry tomatoes. Let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Add the drained penne to the skillet, tossing everything together. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water. Finally, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Taste your pasta and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or a pinch of red pepper flakes if desired.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Yes, you can swap the penne for other pasta types like fettuccine or farfalle to suit your preference.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can substitute the chicken with mushrooms or a mix of seasonal vegetables to create a delicious vegetarian version.
3. What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
If your sauce is too thick, gradually add some reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess.
4. Can I prepare the chicken in advance?
Absolutely! Marinating the chicken in Cajun seasoning for an hour before cooking can enhance the flavor significantly.
5. How long can I store leftovers of this dish?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or pasta water to restore the sauce's creamy texture.
