Description
Spicy Cajun Chicken Alfredo brings Southern charm to classic Italian pasta with bold, creamy flavors that dance across your palate. Sizzling chicken, rich parmesan sauce, and zesty Cajun spices create an irresistible meal you’ll crave again and again.
Ingredients
Scale
Proteins:
- 1 lb (454 grams) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup (150 grams) smoked sausage, sliced
Pasta and Liquid Base:
- 1 lb (454 grams) penne pasta
- 2 cups (480 milliliters) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
Seasonings and Finishing Ingredients:
- 1 cup (100 grams) Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat (around 350°F). Sear sliced smoked sausage until golden brown, approximately 3-4 minutes. Remove sausage and reserve for later.
- Using the same pot, add chicken pieces seasoned with Cajun spice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken loses pink color and becomes slightly crisp, about 5-6 minutes.
- Introduce penne pasta into the pot with chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir ingredients thoroughly to prevent sticking. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring intermittently to ensure even pasta cooking.
- When pasta reaches al dente texture, incorporate grated Parmesan cheese and previously browned sausage. Continuously stir until cheese melts completely, creating a smooth, creamy consistency.
- Remove pot from heat and allow dish to rest for 2-3 minutes, enabling sauce to thicken naturally. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for vibrant color and added flavor complexity. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning levels to control spiciness, using mild or hot varieties based on personal heat tolerance.
- Select low-sodium chicken broth to manage overall salt content and create a healthier version of the dish.
- Swap heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter, less caloric alternative without compromising creamy texture.
- Consider gluten-free penne pasta to make the recipe suitable for individuals with wheat sensitivities or celiac conditions.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Lunch
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 950 mg
- Fat: 29 g
- Saturated Fat: 13 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 56 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 32 g
- Cholesterol: 115 mg