Description
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Garlic Toast
This rich and flavorful pasta dish features tender, spiced chicken on a bed of creamy Cajun sauce with perfectly cooked rigatoni, served alongside golden garlic toast. A comfort food classic!
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
2 chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
12 oz rigatoni or your favorite pasta
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 tsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Garlic Toast:
4 slices of bread
2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions:
Cook the Chicken:
Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove, slice, and set aside.
Cook the Pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Simmer for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Combine:
Toss the cooked pasta in the creamy Cajun sauce until evenly coated. Add the sliced chicken on top.
Prepare the Garlic Toast:
Spread softened butter mixed with garlic powder and parsley on the bread slices. Toast in a skillet or under a broiler until golden brown.
Serve:
Plate the pasta with chicken and serve with garlic toast on the side. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Chef’s Tip: Add a splash of lemon juice to the sauce for extra brightness!
Enjoy this bold, creamy, and comforting dish—perfect for any pasta lover!
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by preparing all ingredients. Season the chicken breasts thoroughly. While the chicken cooks, start boiling water for the pasta to maximize efficiency. After removing the chicken, use the same skillet for the sauce to capture all the flavorful browned bits. As the sauce simmers, prepare the garlic butter for the toast. Combine the drained pasta with the thickened sauce off the heat, then fold in the sliced chicken to keep it tender. Finally, toast the bread while plating the pasta.
Serving Suggestions
Plate this hearty pasta in shallow bowls. Place the garlic toast on the side or leaning against the pasta for a rustic look. For a complete meal, serve with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or a light beer pairs beautifully. For garnish, extra chopped parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds color and heat.
How-to Summary
Season and pan-sear chicken until cooked. Boil pasta until al dente. In the same pan, make a creamy sauce with butter, garlic, cream, broth, Parmesan, and Cajun seasoning. Combine pasta and sauce, top with sliced chicken. Prepare garlic toast by buttering bread with garlic-herb butter and toasting until golden. Serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different protein? Absolutely. Shrimp, sausage, or even sliced tofu are excellent substitutes. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
How can I make this dish less spicy? Omit the crushed red pepper flakes and use a mild Cajun seasoning blend. You can also reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning in the sauce.
What can I use instead of heavy cream? For a lighter version, half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk can work, but the sauce will be less thick. Simmer longer to reduce.
How do I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time? You can cook the chicken and prep ingredients ahead, but assemble and cook the sauce just before serving for the best texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the chicken, as it will become dry. Remove it at 165°F. Do not rinse the pasta after draining; the starch helps the sauce adhere. Ensure your sauce simmers but does not boil vigorously after adding the cream, as it can separate. Finally, use freshly grated Parmesan for the sauce, as pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
Conclusion
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a restaurant-quality meal achievable in your own kitchen. The harmonious blend of bold spices, rich sauce, and tender chicken with crispy garlic toast creates a deeply satisfying experience. By following the detailed steps and tips, you can avoid common pitfalls and customize the dish to your taste. It’s the perfect centerpiece for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, guaranteed to impress any pasta enthusiast.