If you’re craving a pasta dish that’s bold, creamy, and full of flavor, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is exactly what you need! Juicy, spiced chicken combined with a creamy chorizo sauce and tender pasta makes for a dinner that’s both comforting and exciting. This recipe is quick to make, and it’s perfect for a cozy night in or even an impressive meal for guests. Let me show you how easy and delicious it is!
Method
Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Start by preparing the chicken breasts for cooking. Butterfly each chicken breast and flatten it gently using a rolling pin or meat mallet until they are evenly thin. This ensures even cooking and tender chicken. In one bowl, whisk the egg until well mixed. In a separate bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, and garlic granules to create a flavorful coating. Dip each flattened chicken breast into the whisked egg, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Then, transfer the chicken to the breadcrumb mixture, pressing lightly to ensure an even coating on both sides.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and spray it lightly with oil. Add the coated chicken breasts and cook them for about 2 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust. Transfer the chicken to an air fryer preheated to 180°C (350°F) and cook for an additional 15 minutes until fully cooked and crispy. Alternatively, finish cooking the chicken in a preheated oven. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest while you prepare the pasta and sauce.
Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta (or your preferred type of pasta) and cook it according to the package instructions until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the pasta is cooked, drain it and set it aside, reserving a small amount of the cooking water in case you need it to adjust the sauce’s consistency later.
Make the Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, spray a little more oil and place it over medium heat. Add the diced red and yellow peppers, sliced mushrooms, and red onion to the pan. Sauté the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are softened and fragrant. Stir in the crushed garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
Next, pour in the chicken stock and season the mixture with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of chili flakes for a touch of heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the stock to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors. To thicken the sauce, gradually add the cornflour slurry (a mixture of cornflour and water), stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Once the sauce begins to thicken, reduce the heat and stir in the spreadable cheese and Parmesan. Mix until the cheeses are fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Let it simmer for a minute or two to allow the flavors to meld together.
Assemble the Dish
To serve, divide the creamy Cajun pasta between two plates. Slice the crispy chicken breasts into strips and arrange them neatly on top of the pasta. For added flavor and a touch of elegance, sprinkle each plate with additional grated Parmesan and a garnish of fresh parsley. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Air fryer or frying pan (for chicken)
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Medium pan or skillet (for sauce)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- 2 diced chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp Cajun powder
- 1 tsp garlic granules
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- For the Pasta:
- 150 g dry pasta your choice, I love penne or fusilli
- Salted water for boiling
- For the Sauce:
- 1 red onion diced
- 2 crushed garlic cloves
- 50 g chorizo sliced or diced
- 100 ml chicken stock
- 50 g Seriously Strong spreadable cheese
- 10 g Parmesan plus extra for topping
- Optional: Parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep and Cook the Chicken.
- In a mixing bowl, toss the diced chicken breasts with paprika, Cajun powder, garlic granules, and cayenne pepper until evenly coated. Cook the chicken in an air fryer at 190°C (375°F) for 15 minutes, or pan-fry until golden and cooked through.
- Step 2: Cook the Pasta.
- While the chicken is cooking, bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining.
- Step 3: Make the Sauce.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and sauté until softened. Stir in the crushed garlic and chorizo, cooking for a few minutes until the chorizo releases its flavorful oils.
- Step 4: Build the Creamy Sauce.
- Pour the chicken stock into the skillet and allow it to reduce slightly. Stir in the Seriously Strong spreadable cheese and Parmesan, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Step 5: Combine Everything.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and stir until well coated. Stir in half of the cooked chicken, reserving the rest for topping. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce feels too thick.
- Step 6: Serve and Garnish.
- Divide the pasta between two plates. Top with the remaining chicken, sprinkle with parsley and extra Parmesan, and serve warm.
Notes
- Cook Chicken Properly: Ensure the chicken is fully cooked to an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F).
- Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper and Cajun powder.
- Save Pasta Water: The starchy water helps create a silky, well-blended sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
- Add steamed vegetables like broccoli or zucchini for extra nutrients.
- Serve with a glass of iced tea or a crisp white wine for a refreshing combo.
Fun Fact
Did you know Cajun seasoning originates from Louisiana, USA? It’s a blend of bold spices like paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper, which give dishes like this pasta its signature smoky and spicy flavor.
Conclusion
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for something spicy, creamy, and comforting. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and sure to impress anyone you serve it to. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta dish will quickly become a favorite. Try it out, and let me know how much you love it! 🍝🌶️🧄