Introduction
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of spice, creaminess, and savory goodness. Loaded with tender pieces of Cajun-seasoned chicken and smothered in a luscious, creamy sauce, this pasta dish is bursting with flavor. It’s a quick, easy-to-make meal that’s ideal for weeknights but delicious enough to serve to guests.
Ingredients
For the Cajun Chicken:
- 2 large chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- For the Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine or your favorite pasta
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken
Season the diced chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper, ensuring each piece is well coated.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Easy and Flavorful Beef Recipes
Here are some must-try beef recipes that bring out the best flavors of this wonderful meat:
- Slow Cooker Beef Stew: Try this Slow Cooker Beef Stew Recipe for a delicious, hassle-free meal that’s full of savory goodness.
- Classic Beef Stew: Another hearty option is this Classic Beef Stew Recipe, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
- French Onion Beef and Noodles: If you’re craving a comforting noodle dish, this French Onion Beef and Noodles recipe combines tender beef with rich flavors.
2. Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and Cajun seasoning, stirring to combine.
Gradually add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked fettuccine and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy sauce.
5. Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Adjust Spice Level: Add more or less Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference.
Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Fresh Parmesan melts better and adds a richer flavor to the sauce.
Add Vegetables: You can add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta pairs well with:
Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread to soak up the extra sauce.
Green Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.
Grilled Vegetables: Roasted or grilled vegetables add a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Note: This is an estimate based on 4 servings.
- Calories: ~600
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 30g
- Fat: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg