Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe - USA | Ingredients: Chicken, Linguine, Cajun Seasoning

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delicious and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken strips with a creamy, spicy sauce and al dente linguine. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests.

History

The origins of Cajun cuisine can be traced back to the French-speaking Acadian people who settled in Louisiana in the 18th century. Cajun cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of spices, which is evident in this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe.

Ingredients

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
4 oz (113 g) linguine, cooked al dente
2 tsp cajun seasoning
2 tbsp butter
1 thinly sliced green onion
1 – 2 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp chopped sun-dried tomatoes
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp dried basil
0.13 tsp ground black pepper
0.13 tsp garlic powder
0.25 cup grated parmesan cheese

How to prepare

Place the chicken and cajun seasoning in a bowl and toss to coat.
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chicken in butter or margarine until it is tender, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Reduce the heat and add the green onion, heavy cream, tomatoes, basil, salt, garlic powder, and black pepper. Heat through.
Pour the mixture over hot linguine and toss with Parmesan cheese.

Variations

Substitute shrimp or sausage for the chicken for a different flavor profile.
Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier option.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra nutrition.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the linguine al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the creamy sauce.

- Adjust the amount of cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference.

- For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy whipping cream.

- Feel free to add additional vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the chicken until it is cooked through but still tender to prevent it from becoming tough.

- Heat the cream sauce gently to prevent it from curdling.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.

- Substitute half-and-half or milk for the heavy whipping cream.

- Use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried tomatoes.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until ready to serve. Cook the pasta just before serving to prevent it from becoming soggy.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in a large pasta bowl or on individual plates for an elegant presentation. - Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cajun seasoning for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir.

- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through, adding a splash of cream or broth to prevent the sauce from drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

- Total calories per serving: Approximately 700-800 calories

Carbohydrates

- Linguine: 4 oz (113 g) = 42g carbohydrates

- Sun-dried tomatoes: 2 tbsp = 6g carbohydrates

- Parmesan cheese: 0.25 cup = 2g carbohydrates

- Total carbohydrates per serving: 50g

Fats

- Butter: 2 tbsp = 23g fats

- Heavy whipping cream: 1 – 2 cup = 80-160g fats

- Parmesan cheese: 0.25 cup = 6g fats

- Total fats per serving: 109-189g

Proteins

- Chicken breasts: 2 = 48g proteins

- Parmesan cheese: 0.25 cup = 7g proteins

- Total proteins per serving: 55g

Vitamins and minerals

Chicken breasts are a good source of protein, niacin, vitamin B6, and selenium.

- Sun-dried tomatoes are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as iron and potassium.

- Parmesan cheese provides calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (butter, heavy whipping cream, Parmesan cheese) and wheat (linguine), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a rich and indulgent dish that is high in fats and proteins, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates. It is a satisfying meal that provides a good balance of nutrients.

Summary

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests. With its creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente linguine, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend, Lucille, in her cozy kitchen. Lucille was known for her incredible cooking skills, and I always marveled at the delicious dishes she whipped up effortlessly.

As we sat at her kitchen table, sipping on glasses of sweet tea, Lucille began to tell me about a new recipe she had stumbled upon in a magazine. It was a creamy Cajun chicken pasta dish that she couldn't wait to try. I could see the excitement in her eyes as she described the flavors and spices that would come together to create a mouthwatering meal.

Being the food enthusiast that I am, I begged Lucille to show me how to make the dish. She happily agreed and we set to work gathering all the necessary ingredients. The recipe called for chicken breasts, Cajun seasoning, garlic, bell peppers, onions, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and of course, pasta. As we chopped and sautéed, the kitchen filled with the fragrant aroma of garlic and spices.

Lucille taught me the importance of seasoning each step of the cooking process, from marinating the chicken in Cajun spices to adding a dash of salt and pepper to the creamy sauce. She explained that the key to a successful dish was to balance the flavors and adjust the seasoning to taste.

As we stirred the sauce over the stove, I watched in awe as Lucille worked her culinary magic. She added a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a splash of cream, transforming the mixture into a velvety sauce that coated the pasta perfectly. The chicken sizzled in the pan, releasing a spicy aroma that made my mouth water in anticipation.

Finally, the time came to plate the dish. Lucille arranged the pasta on a large serving platter and topped it with the Cajun chicken pieces. The colors of the dish were vibrant and inviting, with the red peppers and green onions adding a pop of freshness to the creamy sauce.

With a flourish, Lucille sprinkled a final dusting of Parmesan cheese over the top and garnished the dish with a sprig of fresh parsley. I could hardly contain my excitement as she handed me a fork and invited me to take the first bite.

The flavors exploded in my mouth, each bite a perfect combination of spicy Cajun seasoning, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and al dente pasta. I closed my eyes and savored the dish, feeling grateful for the opportunity to learn from such a talented cook.

From that day on, Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta became a staple in my own kitchen. I would often think back to that summer day with Lucille, remembering the joy and camaraderie we shared over a simple meal.

As the years passed, I continued to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it my own. I shared the dish with friends and family, impressing them with the bold flavors and comforting warmth of the creamy pasta.

To this day, whenever I make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, I think of Lucille and the moment of discovery that sparked my love for cooking. It is a recipe that holds a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And for that, I am eternally grateful.