cajun pasta whisks you away to sultry southern evenings with its aromatic blend of smoky paprika, garlic, and zesty cayenne, cozying up a skillet with tender chicken or plump shrimp. In place of wine, velvety coconut milk and a splash of tangy vegetable broth create a rich, creamy sauce that clings to each ribbon of pasta. Every twirl bursts with sunshine peppers and savory herbs, painting your plate in vibrant hues. This playful, homey dish invites laughter and storytelling around the table, promising a quick, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug from the bayou, and an unforgettable flavor adventure that dances on your taste buds.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This cajun pasta
- It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Loaded with bold flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Customizable with your favorite proteins and veggies for a personal touch.
- One-pot wonder means less cleanup and more time to enjoy!
cajun pasta
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: Season chicken slices with Cajun seasoning.
- Step 3: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Step 4: In the same skillet, add onion and bell peppers. Sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
- Step 5: Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 6: Reduce heat to medium, pour in heavy cream, and stir to combine.
- Step 7: Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and sauce thickens.
- Step 8: Return chicken to the skillet, then add cooked pasta. Toss everything together until evenly coated in sauce.
- Step 9: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Step 10: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 600 |
| Fat | 30g |
| Protein | 40g |
| Carbs | 50g |
Ingredients
Gather these delicious ingredients to create your flavorful Cajun pasta!
- 8 oz – fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 lb – boneless chicken breast (sliced)
- 2 tbsp – Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp – olive oil
- 1 tbsp – butter
- 1 – red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 – green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 – small onion (sliced)
- 3 cloves – garlic (minced)
- 1 cup – heavy cream
- ½ cup – grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Chopped parsley – for garnish
How to Make Cajun Pasta
This delightful Cajun pasta is a quick and easy dish that brings a burst of flavor to your table. With a preparation time of about 10 minutes and a cooking time of 20 minutes, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in just 30 minutes!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Season chicken slices with Cajun seasoning.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add onion and bell peppers. Sauté until softened, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 5: Add Garlic
Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 6: Make the Sauce
Reduce heat to medium, pour in heavy cream, and stir to combine.
Step 7: Add Cheese
Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and sauce thickens.
Step 8: Combine Everything
Return chicken to the skillet, then add cooked pasta. Toss everything together until evenly coated in sauce.
Step 9: Season to Taste
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Recipe Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Category | Main Course |
| Cuisine | Cajun |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Extra Time | 0 minutes |
| Total Time | 30 minutes |
| Dietary | High Protein |
| Serves | 4 |
| Best Served | Hot and creamy |
Pro Tips for Making cajun pasta
- Opt for a mix of bell peppers for vibrant color and flavor.
- Use smoked paprika to enhance the Cajun taste without alcohol.
- Cook pasta al dente for the perfect texture.
- Add a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
- Top with fresh parsley for a pop of freshness.
How to Serve this cajun pasta
- Top with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for a delightful crunch.
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
- Add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
- Enjoy with a refreshing iced tea or lemonade.
- For a protein boost, toss in grilled chicken or shrimp.
- Garnish with sliced green onions for a zesty finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can prepare and store your Cajun pasta for later enjoyment:
Storing Leftovers
- Allow the pasta to cool completely before storing.
- Transfer to an airtight container.
- Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing Cajun Pasta
- Cool the pasta completely before freezing.
- Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Reheating Cajun Pasta
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
- Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water.
- Stir frequently until heated through.
- Microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, if preferred.
Explore more easy breakfast recipes, quick lunch ideas, cozy dinner meals, tasty snacks, and delightful dessert.
FAQs
Here’s a helpful FAQ about this recipe:
1. Can you put Cajun seasoning in pasta?
Absolutely! Cajun seasoning adds a wonderful depth of flavor to pasta dishes. You can sprinkle it into your sauce or mix it directly into the pasta for a spicy kick. Just be mindful of the amount you use, as it can be quite potent!
2. What type of food is cajun pasta?
Cajun pasta is a fusion dish that combines traditional Italian pasta with the bold, spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine. It often features ingredients like bell peppers, onions, and a variety of spices, making it a hearty and flavorful meal. Perfect for those who love a bit of heat!
3. What’s in the cajun pasta at Chili’s?
Chili’s Cajun pasta typically includes fettuccine noodles tossed in a creamy Alfredo sauce with Cajun spices, grilled chicken, and a mix of bell peppers and onions. While you can recreate a similar dish at home, feel free to customize it with your favorite proteins or veggies!
Final Thoughts
We hope you’re as excited to try this Easy Cajun Pasta as we are! It’s a delightful dish that brings a taste of the South right to your kitchen. With its bold flavors and simple steps, you’ll find it’s not just a meal, but a celebration. So grab your ingredients, and let the cooking adventure begin!