This Chicken Spicy Cajun Pasta is a fun and zesty dish that brings the heat! Tender chicken is cooked with a mix of bold Cajun spices, creating a tasty flavor party in every bite.
Pair it with a sprinkle of cheese, and you’ve got a winner! I love how quick it is to whip up—perfect for busy nights when I’m craving something full of flavor. Yum! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Penne Pasta: Penne is great for this dish because its shape holds onto the sauce. If you don’t have penne, feel free to use any pasta you like—rotini or fettuccine work well too!
Cajun Seasoning: Store-bought Cajun seasoning is convenient, but you can make your own using spices like paprika, garlic powder, and thyme. Adjust the amount based on how spicy you like it; start with less and add more as needed.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or even a combination of Greek yogurt and milk. Just note that it may alter the creaminess a bit!
Cheddar Cheese: While I love cheddar for its rich flavor, a blend of cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack can add different tastes. Try what you have on hand!
How Can I Get My Chicken Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken strips to perfection is crucial. Here’s the trick: start with medium-high heat to get a nice sear on the outside, which helps lock in moisture.
- Make sure the skillet is hot before adding the chicken. This prevents sticking and helps achieve that golden color.
- Cook chicken for about 5-7 minutes, then don’t move it around too much. Let it brown properly before flipping!
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Remember, letting the chicken rest for a couple of minutes after cooking will keep it juicy!
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, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Veggies:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for desired spice level)
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Chicken Spicy Cajun Pasta takes about 30 minutes total: 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes to cook. You’ll enjoy a delicious meal that’s quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, toss the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning until all the pieces are evenly coated. Don’t be shy with the seasoning—this dish is all about that flavor!
3. Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook until they are browned and cooked through. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
4. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the diced red bell pepper and chopped onion. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes or until they become softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
5. Make the Sauce:
Now pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine well. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. This is where the magic happens!
6. Add Cheese and Spice:
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese and cayenne pepper. Keep mixing until the cheese is completely melted and the sauce is nice and smooth. Taste it and add salt and black pepper if needed.
7. Combine Everything:
Finally, add the cooked pasta and the chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with that creamy Cajun sauce. It should look delicious!
8. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your rich, creamy, and spicy Chicken Spicy Cajun Pasta!
Bon appétit! 🍽️
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While cheddar is delicious, you can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or pepper jack for an extra kick. Just adjust based on your taste preference!
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can create your own blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and a pinch of cayenne. Adjust the quantities to suit your spice level!
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables like mushrooms and zucchini. You can also add some firm tofu for protein and a similar texture!
Can I Store Leftovers?
Yes! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if needed.
