Description
This bold and creamy Cajun-style pasta delivers a perfect balance of spice and comfort. Tender chicken, smoky seasonings, and a rich cheese sauce come together in a dish that will have you coming back for more. If you love a fiery kick, this recipe is for you!
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Pasta:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 ounces dried penne pasta
- 4 cups unsalted chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chopped pickled jalapeños (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 large red bell pepper, chopped (about 1 ½ cups)
- 1 large clove garlic, finely chopped
- 1 ¼ teaspoons kosher salt (plus more to taste)
For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
- ½ cup heavy whipping cream
- 1 ½ cups (6 ounces) grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup (2 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
- ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Hot sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the jalapeños and garlic, stirring constantly until fragrant (about 30 seconds to 1 minute).
- Cook the Chicken and Pasta
- Stir in the chicken pieces and cook for 4 minutes until browned.
- Add the pasta and chicken stock, bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 10-12 minutes until the pasta is al dente.
- Create the Sauce
- Remove the lid and stir in the bell peppers, heavy cream, and salt.
- Remove from heat and gradually mix in Parmesan cheese, stirring until smooth.
- Add ¼ cup of the shredded cheddar and stir until fully melted.
- Garnish and Serve
- Divide the pasta among serving bowls and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese.
- Garnish with extra jalapeños, Parmesan, and a drizzle of hot sauce if desired.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
- Substitute shrimp or sausage for chicken for a flavorful variation.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of cream for the best consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Pasta
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun