Cajun Chicken Pasta: A Spicy and Flavorful Delight
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with this mouthwatering Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe. Bursting with bold flavors and creamy textures, this dish is a perfect blend of spicy Cajun seasoning, tender chicken, and vibrant vegetables, all tossed together with perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re craving a hearty dinner for the family or looking to impress guests with a restaurant-quality meal, this Cajun Chicken Pasta is sure to be a hit. Join us as we explore the ins and outs of this delicious recipe, including ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook’s notes, variations, and even keto-friendly and low-carb versions. Let’s dive into the world of Cajun cuisine and create a culinary masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1 ¼ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2-3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (preferably homemade)
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced thick
- 1 red bell pepper, diced small
- ½ lb fresh asparagus, trimmed and cut into 1-inch segments
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup whole or 2% milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 4 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper
- Chopped fresh thyme and parsley
Instructions:
- Season the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning until well coated.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Saute the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add mushrooms, red bell pepper, asparagus, and minced garlic. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Prepare the Pasta:
- In a separate pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain pasta and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the skillet with the cooked vegetables, add chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Stir in cream cheese and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add cooked chicken and cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Stir until everything is well coated and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Sprinkle chopped fresh thyme and parsley over the top of the Cajun Chicken Pasta. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Homemade Cajun Seasoning:
- For homemade Cajun seasoning, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
- Vegetable Variations:
- Feel free to customize the vegetable mix by adding your favorites. Sliced onions, cherry tomatoes, or spinach would all be delicious additions.
- Protein Options:
- Swap the chicken for shrimp, sausage, or tofu for a different flavor profile. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
- Creamy Texture:
- For an extra creamy sauce, increase the amount of cream cheese or heavy cream to your liking.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Is Cajun Chicken Pasta spicy? A: The level of spiciness can be adjusted by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning used. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less Cajun seasoning or opt for a store-bought blend labeled as mild.
Q: Can I make Cajun Chicken Pasta ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them when ready to serve. Store the cooked chicken, vegetables, pasta, and sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Reheat and combine before serving.
Q: How can I make this recipe keto-friendly or low-carb? A: To make a keto-friendly or low-carb version, substitute the penne pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. Use heavy cream and cream cheese for the sauce and adjust the amount of vegetables to fit your macros.
Keto and Low-Carb Version:
- Pasta Substitute:
- Replace the penne pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a keto-friendly option.
- Creamy Sauce:
- Use heavy cream and cream cheese for a rich and creamy sauce without the added carbs from flour-based thickeners.
- Low-Carb Vegetables:
- Choose low-carb vegetables such as bell peppers, asparagus, and mushrooms to keep the carb count in check.
Elevate your dinner game with the bold and flavorful Cajun Chicken Pasta, a deliciously satisfying dish that’s sure to please your palate. Whether you’re a fan of spicy Cajun cuisine or simply love creamy pasta dishes, this recipe offers the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and hearty goodness. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can whip up a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to savor every bite of this irresistible Cajun Chicken Pasta!
