Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken & Sausage Pasta – A Flavor-Packed Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 chicken breasts (boneless and skinless); 1 smoked sausage (sliced); 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (or to taste); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (grated); 8 oz pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your preferred pasta); 1/2 onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

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If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful pasta dish that will leave you craving more, look no further than this creamy Cajun chicken and sausage pasta. With spicy Cajun seasoning, smoky sausage, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish brings the perfect balance of heat and comfort. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Cajun flavors – With a perfect kick of heat and spice, this pasta has all the flavor you crave.
Creamy sauce – The rich and creamy sauce coats every noodle and adds a comforting, indulgent twist to the dish.
Hearty and satisfying – With chicken, sausage, and pasta, this dish is filling enough for a full meal.
One-pan wonder – You’ll love how easy cleanup is, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You can find the full ingredient list below, but here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Chicken breasts – Boneless and skinless for easy cooking.
Smoked sausage – Adds great smoky flavor to the dish.
Cajun seasoning – The star of the show, giving the pasta that distinctive spice.
Heavy cream – For a rich and velvety sauce.
Parmesan cheese – To thicken the sauce and add extra flavor.
Pasta – Penne, rigatoni, or any pasta you prefer.
Garlic and onion – For the base flavor of the sauce.
Olive oil – To cook the chicken and sausage.

Step-by-Step Directions

Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with a bit of Cajun seasoning, then cook them for 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Sauté the Sausage and Veggies

In the same skillet, add a little more olive oil and cook the smoked sausage slices until they’re browned and slightly crispy. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until softened.

Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in Cajun seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and any remaining seasonings. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.

Combine the Ingredients

Once the sauce is ready, return the cooked chicken to the pan and slice it. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together, making sure the noodles are well coated in the creamy sauce.

Expert Tips and Tricks

For extra flavor, sear the chicken on high heat to get a nice golden crust before cooking it through.
Use a blend of Cajun spices for more depth – you can even make your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, and oregano.
Don’t overcook the pasta – Aim for al dente, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

Swap sausage for shrimp – If you prefer seafood, shrimp works wonderfully in this dish!
Add veggies – You can add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
Make it lighter – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Switch up the protein – Turkey sausage or ground chicken would be great alternatives.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

Pair with a green salad – A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich and creamy pasta perfectly.
Serve with garlic bread – A side of crispy garlic bread is always a hit with pasta.
Pair with white wine – A glass of chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc will pair nicely with the creamy richness of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stove – Gently warm the pasta over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
Can I freeze this dish? Yes, you can freeze the pasta for up to 2 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other types of sausage?

Yes, feel free to use chicken sausage, andouille, or even Italian sausage depending on your taste.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use vegetarian sausage and skip the chicken, or add some extra veggies like zucchini or eggplant.

Can I adjust the spice level?

If you prefer a milder version, reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. For more heat, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

What’s the best pasta for this dish?

While penne or rigatoni work great, you can use whatever pasta you have on hand! Fettuccine or linguine would be lovely as well.

Conclusion

This creamy Cajun chicken and sausage pasta is the perfect dish when you’re craving something rich, spicy, and comforting. It’s quick, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a weeknight favorite. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it on repeat!

Creamy Cajun Chicken & Sausage Pasta – A Flavor-Packed Delight

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This creamy Cajun chicken and sausage pasta brings bold Cajun flavors together with a rich, creamy sauce, smoky sausage, and tender chicken, all in a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Author: Touria Elkoudssi
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Category: Main Dish, Pasta
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Cajun, Southern

Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Sausage and Veggies: In the same skillet, add more olive oil and cook the smoked sausage slices until browned. Add onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, bring to a simmer, then stir in Cajun seasoning and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce thicken.
Combine the Ingredients: Slice the chicken and return it to the pan. Add the pasta and toss everything together, coating the noodles in the creamy sauce.

Notes

Extra Flavor Tip: Sear the chicken on high heat to get a golden crust before cooking through.
Custom Spice: For a deeper Cajun flavor, you can make your own spice blend with paprika, garlic powder, and oregano.