For a zesty taste of the bayou, try this easy and satisfying Cajun Chicken Pasta.
Tired of pasta and marinara? It’s time to try something new, and the vibrant, zesty flavors of Cajun cuisine are a great option. Cajun dishes from rural Louisiana are a mix of French, West African, Native American, and Spanish spices, flavorings, and sauces. It’s a homey, hearty cuisine that is colorful and flavorful. Cajun chicken pasta is a great dish to start with if you’ve never made Cajun food.
And if you’re not “a spicy food person,” you might still like Cajun chicken pasta! You can always adjust the heat level to your own or your family’s tastes. Conversely, if you love the heat, you can kick it up a notch with the seasoning and add hot sauce if you like (for an authentic Louisiana hot sauce, try Tabasco, Slap Ya Mama, or Crystal brands, available nationally).
You will love Cajun chicken pasta because it is so flavorful and is very easy to make, even on a busy weeknight. Additionally, you can add extras as you like. Toss in a handful of fresh spinach, or add some thawed, frozen shrimp. Don’t be afraid to experiment!
What is Cajun seasoning made of?
Look for Cajun seasoning in the spice aisle of your supermarket. Most brands of Cajun seasoning include paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Some brands are heavier on the paprika and cayenne pepper for a hotter seasoning mix. Cajun seasoning is different than Creole seasoning, which uses a wider variety of herbs and is a bit earthier and less spicy than Cajun seasoning.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until piping hot.
Serving suggestions
Serve Cajun chicken pasta with a side of fresh traditional cornbread or Jenny’s Cornbread. For additional sides, consider a Wedge Salad or something really down-home like collard greens. And of course, make up a big pitcher of Southern Sweet Tea if you want to go all-out. If there’s room for dessert, serve something fresh and fruity like this Delicious Mixed Berry Cobbler.
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 4 ounces linguine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves
- 2 1/4 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 bell peppers sliced, red and green
- 5 fresh mushrooms sliced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 green onion chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon lemon pepper
- Kosher salt to taste
- Ground black pepper to taste
- 4 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Boil lightly salted water in a large pot. Add linguine and cook until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Slice the chicken breast into strips. Put them in a plastic zipper bag, sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and shake until evenly coated.
- Add butter to a large skillet over medium heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook until browned and almost cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add bell peppers, mushrooms, garlic, and most of the green onion to the skillet (reserve some to sprinkle on for garnish). Cook for an additional 2 to 3 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream, basil, lemon pepper, salt, and black pepper. Heat through.
- Add cooked pasta to the skillet, toss to combine with the sauce and heat through. Sprinkle with remaining green onion and grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
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