Easy Cajun Chicken Pasta
A delightful fusion of pasta, chicken, and a creamy Cajun-inspired sauce that’s quick to prepare and bursts with flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 pieces Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces Fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 cup Diced bell peppers Any color
- 1 medium Onion, chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons Cajun spice mix Includes paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder
- to taste Salt and pepper For seasoning
Optional Add-Ins
- 1 cup Heavy cream For a creamier sauce
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated For added richness
- to taste Fresh herbs (parsley or green onions), chopped For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta according to package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil. Season the chicken breast with Cajun spice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned and cooked through, around 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary, and sauté diced bell peppers and chopped onions for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Cooking
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, scraping up any bits from the bottom of the skillet. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss to combine everything well. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until it reaches your desired consistency.
Serving
- Taste the dish and adjust seasonings. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
Notes
Don’t overcook the chicken; use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F. Adjust the spice level to your preference. Fresh herbs add vibrancy both visually and flavor-wise.