Cajun Chicken Pasta is a hearty and vibrant dish that combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and pasta in a rich and spicy Cajun sauce. Perfect for a weeknight meal, a family dinner, or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Why This Cajun Chicken Pasta Is the Best
- Spicy and Rich Sauce: The Cajun sauce is perfectly balanced with a rich, spicy flavor that coats the pasta and chicken beautifully.
- Tender Chicken: The chicken is cooked until tender and juicy, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the sauce.
- Colorful Vegetables: The dish includes a variety of colorful vegetables like cherry tomatoes, green beans, and peas, adding freshness and nutrition.
- Hearty Pasta: Penne pasta is perfect for holding onto the sauce, making each bite flavorful and satisfying.
- Beautiful Presentation: The vibrant red sauce and colorful vegetables make this dish visually appealing and appetizing.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, preparing a weeknight meal, or looking for a flavorful and satisfying dinner option, Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect choice. The combination of spicy sauce, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables makes it a crowd-pleaser that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredient Notes
- Olive Oil: Used to sauté the vegetables and chicken, providing a base for flavor development.
- Onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
- Garlic: Enhances the overall savory flavor of the pasta.
- Cajun Seasoning: The key spice blend that brings bold, spicy, and smoky flavors.
- Chicken Breasts: The lean protein source that absorbs the Cajun seasoning.
- Chorizo: Adds richness and a smoky, spicy kick.
- Bell Peppers (Red, Green, Yellow): Provide crunch and sweetness to balance the heat.
- Fresh Baby Spinach: Adds color and a mild, earthy flavor.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Offer a burst of freshness and juiciness.
- Dried Pasta Shapes: The vessel for the flavorful sauce, with pasta that holds the sauce well.
- Chopped Tomatoes (Tin): Forms the base of the sauce, providing a rich, tangy backdrop.
- Chicken Stock: Adds depth and helps form a saucy consistency.
- Double Cream (Heavy Cream): Creates a rich and creamy sauce that balances the spiciness.
- Grated Cheddar Cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding creaminess and tang.
- Freshly Chopped Parsley: Offers a fresh, herbaceous finish to the dish.
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Tips for Making the Best Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, high-quality chicken, vegetables, and pasta.
- Season Generously: Season the chicken with plenty of Cajun spices to enhance the flavor.
- Cook Evenly: Ensure the chicken and vegetables are cooked evenly to achieve the best texture and flavor.
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: Top the dish with fresh parsley or cilantro for added flavor and visual appeal.
Serving Suggestions
- With Garlic Bread: Serve Cajun Chicken Pasta with garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- With a Side Salad: Add a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
- With Steamed Vegetables: Include steamed vegetables like broccoli or asparagus for added nutrition.
- With Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges for a refreshing and tangy contrast.
A Must Try
Imagine digging into this Cajun Chicken Pasta—each bite filled with tender chicken, hearty pasta, and vibrant vegetables, all coated in a rich and spicy Cajun sauce. Whether you’re sharing it with family and friends or enjoying it on your own, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Gather your ingredients and create a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious. You’ll love sharing this flavorful dish with loved ones and making special moments even more memorable!
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Cajun Chicken Pasta
Cajun Chicken Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish with tender chicken, smoky chorizo, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce. Bell peppers and spinach add texture and color, while fresh cherry tomatoes brighten up the dish. Topped with melted cheddar and fresh parsley, this dish is a hearty, satisfying meal that's sure to please.
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts cut into bite-size pieces
- 75 gram 2.6 oz chorizo cut into small chunks
- 200 gram 7 oz dried pasta shapes
- 400 gram 14 oz tin chopped tomatoes
- 480 ml 2 cups chicken stock
- 80 ml 1/3 cup double (heavy) cream
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion peeled and chopped
- 1 ½ tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic peeled and minced
- ½ red bell pepper deseeded and sliced
- ½ green bell pepper deseeded and sliced
- ½ yellow bell pepper deseeded and sliced
- large handful of fresh spinach
- 10 fresh cherry tomatoes sliced in half
- 50 gram 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoon freshly chopped parsley
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes, or until the onion starts to soften.
- Coat the chopped chicken breast with Cajun seasoning, then add it to the pan with the onion. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides.
- Stir in the chorizo and garlic, frying for another 2 minutes until the chorizo begins to release its oils. Then add the peppers and mix well. Add the pasta, canned tomatoes, and chicken stock. Bring to a boil, stir, then cover the pan with a lid or foil. Lower the heat and let the pasta simmer for 15 minutes, stirring once or twice during this time.
- After 15 minutes, remove the lid and check the pasta. It should be cooked through (if not, cook for a few more minutes, adding a splash of boiling water if necessary). Stir in the cream and heat for a minute. Then, turn off the heat and mix in the spinach, allowing it to wilt quickly.
- Top with sliced tomatoes, grated cheese, and parsley, then serve.
Notes
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, just swap in gluten-free pasta and stock. Be sure to check that your chorizo is gluten-free as well—it often is, but it's always a good idea to double-check.
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Cajun Chicken Pasta