Cajun Chicken Pasta with Bell Peppers

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors, rich creaminess, and a splash of vibrant color, then Cajun Chicken Pasta with Bell Peppers is the perfect meal for you. This recipe brings together tender slices of chicken seasoned with a zesty Cajun blend, sweet bell peppers, and a luscious creamy sauce all tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s a one-pan wonder that feels indulgent yet surprisingly simple to make. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining friends, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy.

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

• Bold and Flavorful: The Cajun seasoning infuses the chicken with a spicy kick balanced perfectly by the creamy sauce.
• Colorful and Vibrant: Slices of bell peppers add a pop of color and a subtle sweetness that complements the spices wonderfully.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: Use your favorite type of pasta or swap out bell peppers for other vegetables you love.
• Comfort Food with a Twist: Creamy, hearty, and satisfying without being too heavy or complicated.

Shopping List

• 8 ounces fettuccine or pasta of choice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound chicken breast, sliced
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (make sure it’s a blend you love)
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (choose red, yellow, or orange for sweetness)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Essential Tools for Success

• Large Pot: For boiling your pasta to perfect al dente.
• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: To cook the chicken, sauté vegetables, and create the creamy sauce all in one pan.
• Sharp Knife: For slicing the chicken and vegetables evenly.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for prepping your ingredients.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: To stir the sauce and combine all components smoothly.

Cajun Chicken Pasta with Bell Peppers, Made Easy

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of fettuccine or your preferred pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve a half cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the sliced chicken breast with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, ensuring every piece is well coated. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Then, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream. Let the sauce bubble gently for 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the creamy sauce and vegetables. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat everything evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a fresh, herbal finish. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, spicy, and creamy goodness of your Cajun Chicken Pasta with Bell Peppers.

Seasonal Spins

• Summer: Add fresh cherry tomatoes for juiciness and a burst of sweetness.
• Fall: Swap bell peppers for roasted butternut squash cubes for an earthy touch.
• Winter: Incorporate sautéed kale or spinach for added greens and nutrients.
• Spring: Toss in fresh asparagus tips or peas for a light and vibrant twist.

Little Things that Matter

• Choosing Your Pasta: Fettuccine is classic here, but penne or rigatoni work beautifully to hold the creamy sauce.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer milder dishes, reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a milder blend.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh garlic and bell peppers for the brightest flavors and best texture.
• Don’t Skip the Pasta Water: Adding a bit of reserved pasta water helps the sauce cling perfectly to the noodles.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

Once cooked, allow the Cajun Chicken Pasta with Bell Peppers to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to refresh the sauce and keep it from drying out. This dish is not ideal for freezing due to the cream sauce, which can separate upon thawing.

Ask & Learn

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine works wonderfully because of its flat, wide shape that holds the sauce well, you can use penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just be sure to adjust cooking times according to the pasta you choose.

Is there a way to make this dish lighter?

Yes, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter sauce. Just be cautious with heat to prevent curdling. Alternatively, swap out the cream for a cauliflower-based sauce to keep it creamy but lower in calories.

What can I do if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can create your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Mix according to your taste preferences. This allows you to control the heat and flavor intensity perfectly.

Can I add seafood to this dish?

Definitely! Adding shrimp or scallops pairs beautifully with the creamy Cajun flavors. For inspiration, check out the Cajun Chicken And Shrimp Fettuccine recipe, which offers a fantastic variation on this classic.

Keep Cooking

• Love the spice? Try the Spicy Cajun Chicken Penne for a fiery pasta twist.
• If creamy and comforting is your style, the Creamy Cajun Chicken Fettuccine is a must-try.
• Looking to mix proteins? The Cajun Chicken And Shrimp Fettuccine blends flavors beautifully with seafood and chicken.

That’s a Wrap

This Cajun Chicken Pasta with Bell Peppers recipe brings together the best of creamy comfort food and bold Cajun spices in one delicious bowl. It’s quick to prepare, satisfying to eat, and flexible enough to adapt to your pantry or seasonal favorites. Next time you want a meal that feels special but comes together effortlessly, give this recipe a try—you might just find your new favorite pasta dish.

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