Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta
This one-pot dish brings a taste of New Orleans straight to your kitchen with its rich, spicy flavors. The combination of tender chicken, smoky sausage, and creamy sauce makes it a perfect comfort meal for any night of the week.
Ingredients Overview
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced:
Lean protein base that absorbs the spicy Cajun flavors. - 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced:
Adds a smoky, savory taste to the dish. Andouille sausage is a classic choice, but any smoked sausage will work. - 1 onion, chopped:
Provides a mild sweetness and depth to the dish. - 1 red and 1 green bell pepper, sliced:
Add color, crunch, and a slight sweetness. - 3 cloves garlic, minced:
Infuses the dish with a robust, aromatic flavor. - 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning:
The key ingredient that gives the pasta its signature heat and flavor. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference. - 2 cups chicken broth:
Helps cook the pasta and creates the base of the sauce. - 1 cup heavy cream:
Adds richness and creaminess to balance the spices. - 12 oz pasta of your choice:
Penne, linguine, or rigatoni work well, but you can use your favorite type. - Salt and pepper, to taste:
For seasoning. - Fresh parsley, for garnish:
Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken and Sausage:
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken and sausage, cooking until both are browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step helps to build flavor. - Add the Vegetables:
Stir in the chopped onion, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, approximately 5 minutes. - Season and Add Liquid Ingredients:
Mix in the Cajun seasoning, then pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well. - Add the Pasta:
Add the uncooked pasta to the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cover the skillet. Let it cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. - Season to Taste:
Once the pasta is cooked, taste the dish and add salt and pepper as needed. - Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the top and serve hot. Enjoy your spicy, creamy Cajun pasta!
Tips for the Perfect Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta
- Adjust the Spice Level:
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the Cajun seasoning to 1 tbsp. For more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. - Use Different Proteins:
Swap the chicken for shrimp, or make it vegetarian by omitting the meat and adding extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini. - Try a Different Pasta Shape:
Short pasta shapes like bowtie, rigatoni, or rotini work best because they hold the sauce well. - Add Extra Creaminess:
Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese for a richer sauce. - Finish with a Squeeze of Lemon Juice:
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens up the dish and balances the flavors.
Serving Suggestions
- Garlic Bread:
Serve with a side of warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. - Green Salad:
A crisp salad with a simple vinaigrette is a great way to balance the richness of the pasta. - Grilled Vegetables:
Grilled asparagus or zucchini make for excellent side dishes.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigerating Leftovers:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. - Freezing:
This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly on the stove with a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce. - Reheating:
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a little extra cream or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes, substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy cream (like coconut cream or cashew cream) and use a dairy-free sausage.
2. Do I need to cook the pasta separately?
No, cooking the pasta directly in the sauce allows it to absorb the flavors and creates a creamy consistency.
3. Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, add pre-cooked shredded or cubed chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking, just to heat it through.
4. What kind of smoked sausage is best?
Andouille sausage is traditional for Cajun dishes, but kielbasa or any smoked sausage will work.
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta is a flavorful, hearty dish that’s sure to satisfy. The blend of spices, creamy sauce, and tender meat makes it a family favorit
