Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta is a bold, creamy pasta dish loaded with tender chicken, savory sausage, and colorful bell peppers and onions. A rich tomato-cream sauce seasoned with smoky spices and a splash of chicken broth coats every bite, while a touch of lemon adds brightness. Quick to make and full of comforting flavor, Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta is a perfect weeknight dinner that feels hearty, satisfying, and full of Southern-inspired flair.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta
- It’s a flavor explosion with every bite!
- Quick and easy to whip up on busy weeknights.
- Comforting creamy sauce that hugs the pasta perfectly.
- Customizable with your favorite veggies for added nutrition.
- Perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil.
- Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sausage slices; cook until browned, about 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add onion, red and green bell peppers to the skillet; sauté until softened, about 4 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens.
- Return chicken, sausage, and cooked pasta to the skillet; toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 600 |
| Fat | 30g |
| Protein | 40g |
| Carbs | 50g |
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create the delicious Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta!
- 8 ounces penne pasta – your favorite pasta shape works!
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing the ingredients.
- 1 pound chicken breast – cut into strips for easy cooking.
- 8 ounces andouille sausage – sliced for extra flavor.
- 1 red bell pepper – sliced to add sweetness.
- 1 green bell pepper – sliced for a pop of color.
- 1 small onion – sliced for that aromatic base.
- 2 cloves garlic – minced for a burst of flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning – for that signature spice!
- 1 cup heavy cream – for a rich and creamy sauce.
- ½ cup chicken broth – to lighten the sauce.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – for a cheesy finish.
- Salt and pepper – to taste for seasoning.
- Chopped parsley – for garnish!
How to Make Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta
This delicious Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta is a quick and easy meal that packs a flavorful punch! With a preparation time of about 10 minutes and a cooking time of 25 minutes, you’ll have a creamy, spicy dish ready in no time. Perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step 1:
Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
Step 2:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil.
Step 3:
Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper; cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 4:
In the same skillet, add sausage slices; cook until browned, about 3–4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Step 5:
Add onion, red and green bell peppers to the skillet; sauté until softened, about 4 minutes.
Step 6:
Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Step 7:
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
Step 8:
Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce thickens.
Step 9:
Return chicken, sausage, and cooked pasta to the skillet; toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
Step 10:
Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional Cajun seasoning if desired.
Step 11:
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Cajun |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 25 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 35 minutes |
| Dietary | High Protein |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot and creamy with a sprinkle of parsley! |
Pro Tips for Making Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta
- Use smoked turkey sausage for a lighter option without sacrificing flavor.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your spice preference for a personalized kick.
- Incorporate bell peppers and onions for added texture and sweetness.
- Let the pasta rest for a few minutes before serving to enhance the creaminess.
- Top with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
How to Serve this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta
- Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette.
- Top with grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy finish.
- Enjoy with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade for a perfect meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing and enjoying your Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta later is easy!
Storing Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Leftovers
- Allow the pasta to cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Label the container with the date for easy tracking.
Freezing Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta
- Cool the pasta completely before freezing.
- Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of chicken broth.
- Stir frequently until heated through.
- Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, if preferred.
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FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. What ingredients do I need to make Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta?
To make Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta, you will need chicken breast, smoked sausage (like turkey sausage), pasta (such as penne or fettuccine), bell peppers, onion, garlic, heavy cream, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning. Don’t forget to add some olive oil, salt, and pepper for seasoning!
2. How do I prepare the Cajun seasoning for this pasta dish?
You can easily prepare Cajun seasoning at home by mixing together paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, and black pepper. Adjust the spice levels according to your taste preference. This homemade blend will add a delightful kick to your Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta!
3. Can I substitute different proteins or vegetables in Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta?
Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or even a plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. As for vegetables, feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to enhance the dish. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility!
4. What side dishes and wine pairings go well with Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta?
For side dishes, consider serving a fresh green salad or garlic bread to complement the flavors of the pasta. If you prefer a non-alcoholic beverage, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon or iced tea pairs wonderfully with this dish. Enjoy your meal!
Final Thoughts
Get ready to savor the bold flavors of this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta! It’s a delightful dish that’s not only easy to whip up but also incredibly satisfying. So gather your loved ones, serve it up, and enjoy the warmth and spice it brings to your table. Happy cooking!