If you’re looking for a pasta dish that packs a punch of flavor and spice, this Bold Cajun Chicken Pasta is exactly what you need. Combining the rich, creamy texture of a classic pasta sauce with the vibrant flavors of Cajun spices, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. The crispy, golden-brown chicken thighs add a satisfying crunch to every bite, while the colorful medley of bell peppers and onions brings a fresh, slightly sweet contrast to the heat of the spices. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re craving something comforting yet exciting. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can easily be doubled to serve a larger group or adjusted to suit your personal spice preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Cajun Chicken Pasta is simple to prepare and sure to impress. Serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, and you’ve got a complete, satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 4 tbsp canola oil, for frying
- 3/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk, for dipping
- 1 tbsp butter, for sauce
- 1 small yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2-3 tsp chili flakes, to taste
- 1 1/4 pints heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 box farfalle pasta
- Paprika, for seasoning
- Old Bay seasoning, to taste
- Cayenne pepper, to taste
- Additional Parmesan cheese and chili flakes, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: Begin by pounding the chicken thighs until they are very thin—this helps them cook evenly and quickly. In a shallow dish, mix the panko breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, flour, and a pinch of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Pour the milk into a separate dish. Dip each chicken thigh into the breadcrumb mixture, then into the milk, and then back into the breadcrumbs to ensure a good coating.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the canola oil in a cast iron pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the breaded chicken thighs and fry until they are golden brown and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the pan and let it drain on paper towels. Keep the chicken warm.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced yellow and red bell peppers and the red onion, sautéing until they are crisp-tender, about 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and chili flakes, cooking for an additional 3 minutes until fragrant.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Allow the sauce to simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, and season the sauce with salt, pepper, paprika, Old Bay seasoning, and cayenne pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce gently simmer, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is simmering, cook the farfalle pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, following the package instructions. Reserve some of the pasta water before draining, then return the pasta to the pot.
- Combine and Serve: Pour the creamy Cajun sauce over the cooked pasta, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Serve the pasta on plates, topped with the crispy chicken thighs. Garnish with additional Parmesan cheese and chili flakes for an extra kick.
Nutritional Information & Dietary Concerns:
This Bold Cajun Chicken Pasta dish is a hearty, satisfying meal that offers a balance of protein, carbs, and fats. The chicken thighs provide a good source of protein, while the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese contribute to the dish’s rich, creamy texture. Bell peppers and onions add a dose of vitamins and fiber, enhancing the nutritional profile of the meal. However, those watching their sodium intake may want to adjust the seasoning or use a lower-sodium chicken broth. The dish is high in calories and saturated fats, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. If you’re looking for a lighter option, consider using half-and-half instead of heavy cream or grilling the chicken instead of frying it.
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