Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta
This dish combines tender chicken, creamy pasta, and the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning in one irresistible bowl. Whether you're whipping up a weeknight dinner for the family or impressing guests with your culinary skills, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board
- Tongs or Spatula
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Colander
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz 225 g fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb/450 g)
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 cup 240 ml heavy cream
- ½ cup 120 ml chicken broth
- ½ cup 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley chopped
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
- Drain the pasta, toss it with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent sticking, and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips.
- Coat the chicken with Cajun seasoning, ensuring an even layer on all sides.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken strips for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, smoked paprika, and Parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it in the sauce.
- Add the drained pasta and gently toss to combine everything.
- Let it cook for 1-2 minutes so the pasta absorbs the sauce.
Step 5: Serve
- Transfer the pasta to plates or bowls.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Nutritional Value (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~550-600 kcal
- Protein: ~35 g
- Carbohydrates: ~40 g
- Fat: ~30 g
- Saturated Fat: ~15 g
- Cholesterol: ~120 mg
- Sodium: ~850 mg (depending on the Cajun seasoning and Parmesan used)
- Fiber: ~3 g
- Sugar: ~4 g
The nutritional information on this website is only an estimate and is provided for convenience and as a courtesy only. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site is not guaranteed. It should not be used as a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.