Hello, food aficionados and lovers of all things savory! Today, we're embarking on a culinary journey to the heart of Louisiana with a dish that's as soulful as it is satisfying - Cajun Chicken Pasta. This delightful fusion of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, spicy sauce is a comfort food favorite that brings the warmth of Southern hospitality to your plate. Join me as we dive into this flavor-packed creation, inspired by a TikTok video from @cookingwithjassrenee. Let's bring a taste of the bayou to your kitchen!
Ingredients You'll Need:
For the Cajun Seasoning:
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to your heat preference)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cajun Chicken Pasta:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 8 ounces fettuccine or your choice of pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Cajun Seasoning
- In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This forms your homemade Cajun seasoning.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
- Rub the Cajun seasoning generously over both sides of the chicken breasts. Make sure they are well coated.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat a pan over medium-high heat and add olive oil.
- Cook the chicken breasts for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have a nice Cajun-spiced crust.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest. Then, slice it into thin strips.
Step 4: Prepare the Pasta
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 5: Make the Sauce
- In the same pan used for the chicken, add a bit more olive oil if needed.
- Sauté the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, onion, and garlic until they are tender and fragrant.
Step 6: Add Cream and Broth
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Chicken
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced Cajun-seasoned chicken to the sauce. Toss everything together until it's well coated.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish your Cajun Chicken Pasta with fresh chopped parsley and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Tips for Extra Flair:
- Adjust the level of spiciness by adding more or less Cajun seasoning.
- Feel free to throw in some diced tomatoes or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
There you have it, dear readers! Cajun Chicken Pasta, a dish that brings a touch of Southern charm to your dinner table. Whether you're craving a hearty meal that warms the soul or aiming to impress guests with a taste of the bayou, this dish has you covered.
So, gather your ingredients, embrace the flavors of the South, and get ready to savor the delicious comfort of Cajun cuisine. Happy cooking! 🍗🍝🌶️