Description
This Creamy Cajun Pasta recipe combines tender chicken or shrimp with vibrant bell peppers in a rich, spicy cream sauce served over fettuccine or penne pasta. Quick and flavorful, it’s perfect for a comforting Cajun-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
Protein and Seasoning
- 1 pound chicken breast or shrimp, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Dairy
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside to be combined later with the sauce and protein.
- Sauté Protein: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken or shrimp with Cajun seasoning, then add to the skillet. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes until fully cooked or shrimp for 2–3 minutes until opaque and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook Vegetables: In the same skillet, add sliced red and yellow bell peppers. Cook for 3–4 minutes or until tender. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Prepare Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth into the skillet with the vegetables. Bring to a gentle simmer, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to simmer for 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine and Finish: Return the cooked chicken or shrimp and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together thoroughly until the pasta and protein are evenly coated with the creamy Cajun sauce and heated through. Season with additional Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired, and serve the creamy Cajun pasta warm for the best flavor.
Notes
- For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or increase the Cajun seasoning.
- Smoked sausage can be used as an alternative to chicken or shrimp for a different flavor.
- This dish is best served fresh but can be reheated with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
