When it comes to comfort food, Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet is hard to beat. With its bold Cajun flavors, creamy sauce, and hearty ingredients, this dish feels like a warm hug in every bite. Imagine tender pieces of chicken, smoky sausage, and perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a rich and flavorful sauce. Sounds irresistible, doesn’t it?
Even better, this recipe is a breeze to make. It’s quick, easy, and uses simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Whether you’re whipping up a weeknight dinner or looking for something the whole family will love, this one-skillet wonder checks all the boxes. Plus, who doesn’t love fewer dishes to wash? Let’s dive in and explore what makes this dish so special!
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Cajun Pasta
12 oz penne pasta
1 lb chicken breast (cubed)
8 oz smoked sausage (sliced)
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
1 small onion (diced)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 red bell pepper (sliced)
1 cup heavy cream
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet
Cook Pasta:
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook Chicken and Sausage:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss chicken with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning and cook until golden (5–6 minutes). Add sausage and cook for 2–3 more minutes. Remove and set aside.
Sauté Veggies:
In the same skillet, sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until softened (3–4 minutes).
Make Sauce:
Stir in heavy cream, chicken broth, and remaining Cajun seasoning. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened (4–5 minutes). Stir in Parmesan cheese.
Combine:
Return chicken, sausage, and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in the sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
Serve:
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. Enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Every Time
When making Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet, a few small tips can make a big difference. First, let’s talk about spice levels. If you like a little heat, stick to the full amount of Cajun seasoning. But if you’re cooking for kids or prefer a milder flavor, simply reduce the seasoning or use a milder blend. You can always sprinkle on extra spice later!
Another great time-saver is using pre-cooked sausage. Not only does it cut down on prep time, but it also brings out that smoky flavor faster in the skillet. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights when you need dinner on the table quickly.
For those following a gluten-free diet, this recipe is easy to adapt. Just swap out the penne for gluten-free pasta. There are plenty of options available now that taste just as good as regular pasta, so no one will even notice the difference.
Finally, leftovers! If you’re lucky enough to have any, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep the sauce nice and creamy. This way, your pasta will taste just as delicious the next day. With these tips, your Cajun pasta will turn out perfectly every single time!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works great because it holds the sauce well, you can use other pasta types like fettuccine, rotini, or bowtie. For a gluten-free option, swap in gluten-free pasta.
What’s the best sausage to use?
Smoked sausage is the classic choice for this recipe because of its deep, smoky flavor. However, you can use andouille sausage for an authentic Cajun touch or even turkey sausage if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Replace the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or unsweetened almond milk. For the Parmesan cheese, try a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Can I add more vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the skillet. They pair wonderfully with the flavors and make the dish even heartier.
Can I freeze leftovers?
This dish isn’t the best for freezing because the cream-based sauce may separate when reheated. However, if you do freeze it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly with extra cream or broth to bring the sauce back together.
How do I prevent the sauce from becoming too thick?
If the sauce thickens too much, simply add a bit more chicken broth or cream until it reaches your desired consistency. Stir well to blend everything evenly.
What can I serve with Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet?
This dish is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or some warm garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Can I substitute the chicken for another protein?
Yes! Shrimp is a fantastic alternative if you want a seafood twist. You can also use leftover rotisserie chicken to save time or even tofu for a vegetarian option.