Indulge in the flavors of Louisiana with this tantalizing Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe. Bursting with a perfect blend of spices, tender chicken, and a luscious creamy sauce, it’s a dish that promises to delight your taste buds and leave you craving more.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz linguine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 1/2 to 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided (adjust to taste depending on the brand)*
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2/3 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp parsley, finely chopped (for serving)
Directions:
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and keep it warm.
- Prepare the Chicken: Flatten the chicken breasts to an even thickness and season them with 1½ tbsp of Cajun seasoning.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 2 tsp of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned chicken breasts on both sides until they are cooked through. Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board, slice thinly, and keep it warm.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet over medium heat, add the unsalted butter and minced garlic. Sauté until the garlic is fragrant. Then, add the diced tomatoes and sauté for an additional 2 minutes.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the heavy whipping cream, add the remaining Cajun seasoning to taste, and sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the sliced chicken and the cooked linguine pasta to the sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. If the sauce is too thick, use the reserved pasta water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
- Serve: Garnish the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley before serving.
Tips:
- Avoid using cast iron or copper pans when making creamy sauces with acidic ingredients like tomatoes to prevent a grainy texture.
- If using Cajun seasoning with a high salt content, start with half the amount and adjust to taste.
Conclusion:
With its irresistible combination of tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and creamy Cajun-infused sauce, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Serve it up for a cozy dinner at home or impress guests with its bold flavors and comforting appeal. Enjoy every delicious bite!
1. Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While linguine is traditionally used for this dish, you can easily substitute it with other types of pasta such as fettuccine, penne, or even spaghetti. The key is to ensure that the pasta is cooked al dente so it retains its texture and can absorb the creamy sauce beautifully.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can certainly prepare some components in advance to save time. You can cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time, keeping them refrigerated until you’re ready to assemble the dish. However, it’s recommended to prepare the sauce just before serving to maintain its creamy texture and flavor. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive the sauce’s consistency.
3. How spicy is this dish with Cajun seasoning?
The level of spiciness in this dish can be adjusted to suit your taste preferences. Cajun seasoning typically adds a moderate level of heat, but the intensity can vary depending on the brand and your personal tolerance for spice. Start with the lower end of the recommended amount and gradually increase to taste. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or opt for a mild version. Conversely, if you love spice, feel free to add extra Cajun seasoning or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
4. Can I make this dish vegetarian or with a different protein?
Absolutely! While chicken adds a delicious flavor and protein to this dish, you can easily customize it to suit different dietary preferences. For a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken altogether and add in your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Simply sauté the vegetables along with the garlic and tomatoes until they’re tender, then proceed with the recipe as directed. Alternatively, you can substitute the chicken with other proteins such as shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a different twist on this flavorful pasta dish. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose to ensure it’s cooked through and tender.