Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Savor the perfect fusion of comfort and spice with this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. Tender chicken thighs are paired with a rich and velvety sauce, infused with zesty Cajun seasonings and served over al dente pasta. This delightful recipe is quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
This recipe combines the warmth of cajun spices with the comfort of creamy pasta, making it a family favorite.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Cajun Chicken Pasta
To achieve the best flavor in your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, it's essential to properly season your chicken. A generous coating of Cajun seasoning will not only enhance the taste but also create a delightful golden crust. If you enjoy more heat, feel free to add extra seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
When cooking the pasta, ensure you add enough salt to the boiling water. This is your chance to infuse the pasta with flavor, complementing the rich sauce. Remember to keep an eye on the cooking time to achieve al dente pasta, which will add to the overall texture of your dish.
For a touch of freshness, consider adding sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach to your pasta dish. This not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds vibrant colors and flavors to your meal.
Serving Suggestions
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing helps to balance the richness of the creamy sauce, offering a satisfying contrast that elevates your meal.
For those who love bread, serving this dish with garlic bread or a warm baguette can make it even more delightful. The bread can be used to soak up the extra sauce, enhancing your dining experience.
Don’t forget to garnish your pasta with freshly chopped parsley before serving. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also contributes a subtle flavor that brightens the dish.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken thighs, diced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!
Cooking Steps
Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken thighs and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
Make the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium, and add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to combine. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Enjoy your delicious creamy cajun chicken pasta!
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers after enjoying your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to store them for later. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days, retaining its flavor and creamy texture.
For best results when reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to the pasta to help restore its creamy consistency. Gently reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Customization Ideas
This recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Swap out the chicken thighs for shrimp for a seafood twist, or go for a vegetarian version by using mushrooms and zucchini instead of meat.
Feel free to experiment with different pasta shapes as well. While penne works great, fusilli or fettuccine can add a new dimension to the dish. Just remember to adjust the cooking times accordingly, as different pasta shapes may require different boiling times.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use different pasta?
Yes, any type of pasta will work well with this sauce!
→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Savor the perfect fusion of comfort and spice with this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. Tender chicken thighs are paired with a rich and velvety sauce, infused with zesty Cajun seasonings and served over al dente pasta. This delightful recipe is quick to prepare, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that the whole family will love.
Created by: Autumn Pierce
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound chicken thighs, diced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish
How-To Steps
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken thighs and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
Reduce the heat to medium, and add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to combine. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 500
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 25g