Description
This Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist. Tender chicken, flavorful sausage, and a rich, creamy sauce come together to create a dish that’s bold, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your guests with something flavorful. Prep time is minimal, and the result is an unforgettable meal!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
For the Cajun Chicken and Sausage:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 8 oz Andouille sausage (sliced)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & black pepper (to taste)
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp additional Cajun seasoning (optional, for extra spice)
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz penne pasta (or preferred pasta)
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water (if needed)
Optional Garnishes:
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Red pepper flakes (for extra heat)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken and Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and half of the Cajun seasoning.
- Sear chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest.
- In the same skillet, add sliced sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Melt butter in the skillet and sauté onions for 2 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
- Stir in heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning. Simmer for 5-7 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken.
- Add Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
- Slice the cooked chicken into thin strips.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked chicken and sausage back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir to combine.
- Toss in the cooked pasta, adding reserved pasta water if needed to adjust sauce consistency.
- Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
- Add red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
- Adjust Spice Level: Reduce or increase Cajun seasoning to suit your preference.
- Substitutions: Use shrimp instead of chicken, or half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: ~650 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 17g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 130mg