Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun-inspired
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; 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)

Isabella

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Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly balances creamy richness with a kick of spice? Look no further than this delectable recipe for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. Bursting with flavors and textures, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients:

8 oz linguine pasta

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tsp olive oil

1 1/2 to 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided (adjust to taste depending on the brand)*

2 tbsp unsalted butter

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)

Instructions:

Prepare the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of salted water and cooking the linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Keep the pasta warm.

Prepare the Chicken: Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness and season them with 1½ tbsp of Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat 2 tsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a cutting board, slice thinly, and keep warm.

Make the Sauce: In the same skillet over medium heat, sauté the unsalted butter and minced garlic until fragrant. Add the diced tomatoes and sauté for an additional 2 minutes. Pour in the heavy whipping cream, remaining Cajun seasoning to taste, and grated Parmesan cheese. Bring the mixture to a simmer and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Combine and Serve: Add the sliced chicken and cooked pasta to the sauce in the skillet. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Use the reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if desired. Serve the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a finishing touch.

Notes:

Tip for Cookware: Avoid using cast iron or copper pans when making creamy sauces with acidic ingredients like tomatoes to prevent a grainy texture.

Seasoning Adjustment: If using Cajun seasoning with high salt content, start with half the amount recommended in the recipe and adjust to taste.

Serving Tips:

Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor profile with its freshness.

Add Extra Parmesan: For cheese lovers, offer grated Parmesan cheese at the table so that everyone can sprinkle an extra layer of cheesy goodness over their portion according to their preference.

Serve with Garlic Bread: Pair this pasta dish with warm, crusty garlic bread or toasted baguette slices. The garlic-infused bread complements the flavors of the pasta and helps soak up the creamy sauce.

Include a Side Salad: Balance the richness of the pasta with a light and crisp side salad. A simple mix of fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy texture of the main dish.

Pair with a Chilled Beverage: Serve alongside a chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, or a refreshing non-alcoholic option like iced tea or sparkling water with lemon for a delightful dining experience.

Storage Tips:

Refrigeration: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure the pasta is cooled completely before transferring it to the container to maintain its texture.

Reheating: To reheat the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, gently warm it in a skillet on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in microwave-safe dishes, covering them with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

Pasta Water Trick: If the pasta appears dry upon reheating, add a splash of reserved pasta water or a drizzle of milk or cream to revive the creaminess of the sauce.

Freezing (Optional): While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for future meals. Store the cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some room for expansion. Frozen Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta can be kept for up to 2-3 months.

Thawing and Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the frozen pasta overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat it gently using one of the methods mentioned above, adding a little extra liquid if needed to maintain the desired consistency.

Related Recipes:

Shrimp & Crab Pasta with Creamy Cajun Sauce

FAQS

Can I adjust the spice level of the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta to suit my taste preferences?

Absolutely! The spice level in this recipe can be adjusted according to your personal preference. Start with the recommended amount of Cajun seasoning and taste the sauce before adding more. If you prefer a milder dish, use less Cajun seasoning, or if you enjoy a bit more heat, feel free to add extra seasoning gradually until you achieve the desired level of spiciness.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe instead of cooking it from raw?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked chicken in this recipe if you prefer to save time. Simply slice or shred the cooked chicken and add it to the sauce along with the cooked pasta. Keep in mind that using pre-cooked chicken may slightly alter the overall flavor and texture of the dish compared to cooking the chicken from raw, but it will still be delicious.

How can I make this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe gluten-free?

To make this recipe gluten-free, swap out the regular linguine pasta for gluten-free linguine or any other gluten-free pasta variety of your choice. Additionally, ensure that the Cajun seasoning you use is gluten-free, as some blends may contain gluten-based ingredients. By making these simple substitutions, you can enjoy a delicious gluten-free version of this creamy pasta dish without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make this dish ahead of time for meal prep purposes?

Yes, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta can be made ahead of time for meal prep. Cook the pasta and chicken as directed, prepare the sauce, and combine everything together. Once the dish has cooled, portion it into individual meal containers and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat the pasta in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or cream while reheating can help maintain the creaminess of the sauce. This makes it a convenient option for busy weeknights or packed lunches.

Conclusion:

With its creamy texture, bold Cajun flavors, and tender chicken, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. So, why wait? Head to the kitchen and treat yourself to a delicious culinary adventure tonight!