why make this recipe
Five-Ingredient Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a fantastic dish that combines the creaminess of a smooth sauce with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning. It’s a quick meal, taking only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, with only five main ingredients, you can keep your grocery list short and your preparation simple. This recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize it based on what you have at home.
how to make Five-Ingredient Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients :
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced or cubed
- 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning blend
- 8 ounces of fettuccine or your preferred pasta
- 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Directions :
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions, typically for 8-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a small amount of the cooking liquid in case you need to thin out the sauce later.
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced or cubed chicken and sprinkle with the Cajun seasoning. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it’s fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center, about 6-8 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Cajun sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. If the sauce seems too thick, you can thin it out by adding a splash or two of the reserved pasta cooking liquid.
how to serve Five-Ingredient Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Serve the creamy Cajun chicken pasta hot, straight from the skillet. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or some garlic bread. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese or a pinch of Cajun seasoning on top for added flavor.
how to store Five-Ingredient Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
tips to make Five-Ingredient Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- If you like more spice, consider adding a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- For extra flavor, sauté some minced garlic or diced onions with the chicken.
- You can also add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the dish for added nutrition and color.
variation (if any)
Feel free to swap chicken for shrimp or sausage for a completely different flavor profile. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if desired.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the pasta ahead of time. Combine them just before serving for the best texture.
Is this dish spicy?
The Cajun seasoning gives it a mild to moderate spice level. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning you use.
Five-Ingredient Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the fettuccine or pasta of your choice and cook according to the package instructions, usually for 8-12 minutes, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside, reserving a small amount of the cooking liquid.
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the sliced or cubed chicken and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook the chicken, stirring occasionally, until it's fully cooked through and no longer pink in the center, about 6-8 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream or half-and-half.
- Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy Cajun sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
- If the sauce seems too thick, thin it out by adding a splash or two of the reserved pasta cooking liquid.