Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying dish featuring tender chicken, sautéed bell peppers, and a rich, creamy sauce with a spicy Cajun kick. Paired with fettuccine pasta and topped with freshly grated Parmesan, this dish is a perfect balance of creamy, savory, and spicy flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Directions

1. Cook fettuccine pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning on both sides.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until they are no longer pink in the center, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and slice it into strips.
4. In the same skillet, add the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, onion, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy.
6. Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta and chicken are well coated in the creamy sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Option: Increase the Cajun seasoning for an extra spicy kick or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add extra vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach for a vegetarian version.
• Cheese Options: Swap the Parmesan for Pecorino Romano or Asiago cheese for a different flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, you can substitute the fettuccine with any type of pasta, such as penne, spaghetti, or linguine.
2. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts? Yes, chicken thighs will work well and provide a juicier, more flavorful result. Cook them the same way and slice them into strips.
3. Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time? While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the components (pasta, chicken, sauce) ahead of time and assemble just before serving.
4. Can I make this dish dairy-free? Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use a dairy-free Parmesan or nutritional yeast instead of cheese.
5. Can I freeze leftovers? Creamy dishes tend to separate when frozen, but you can freeze leftovers for up to 1 month. When reheating, you may need to stir in a little extra cream to restore the sauce’s consistency.
6. How can I make this dish less spicy? Use less Cajun seasoning or choose a mild variety. You can also omit the garlic if you prefer a less intense flavor.
7. Can I add other vegetables to this dish? Yes, feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach to the skillet for added texture and flavor.
8. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? The chicken is done when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
9. Can I substitute the olive oil with butter? Yes, butter can be used instead of olive oil for a richer flavor, especially when cooking the chicken.
10. What should I serve with this dish? This pasta is filling on its own, but you can pair it with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and indulgent dish that combines the rich creaminess of the sauce with the bold, spicy flavors of Cajun seasoning. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Whether you’re a fan of spicy foods or just craving a hearty, comforting meal, this dish will not disappoint!

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