Get ready to transform your dinner table into a sizzling Creole paradise with this mouthwatering Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta! Imagine a dish that combines tender chicken, smoky sausage, and a creamy, spice-packed sauce that will make your taste buds dance with joy. This isn't just another pasta recipe - it's a culinary adventure that brings the vibrant flavors of Louisiana right into your kitchen in just 30 minutes!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 30 mins
Cuisine: Creole
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 lb smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast and season with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add sliced smoked sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until it starts to brown and release its oils. Remove sausage and set aside with the chicken.
- In the same skillet, sauté the chopped onions and diced bell peppers for 3-4 minutes until they become soft and slightly translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Reduce heat to medium-low and pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer the cream sauce for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken.
- Return the cooked chicken and sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked penne pasta and gently toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through and allow the flavors to meld together.
- Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot, directly from the skillet.
Tips
- Spice Control: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your heat preference. Start with less and add more if you like it spicier.
- Pasta Perfection: Always cook pasta al dente - it will continue to absorb sauce and soften slightly when mixed with other ingredients.
- Skillet Magic: Use the same skillet for each step to build layers of flavor and minimize cleanup.
- Cream Sauce Trick: Keep the heat low when adding cream to prevent separation and ensure a smooth, silky sauce.
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh parsley for garnish to add a bright, fresh finish to the rich, creamy dish.
- Protein Swap: Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or use a mix of proteins for variety.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated gently, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 750kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 55g
Fat: 48g
Saturated Fat: 25g
Cholesterol: 220mg
