There’s nothing quite like the comfort of a hearty pasta dish, especially one that brings a little heat to the table. Today, I’m excited to share my take on a recipe that has become a favorite in my home: Cajun Chicken Alfredo. This dish holds a special place in my heart because it reminds me of a wonderful trip to New Orleans, where the vibrant flavors and lively spirit of Cajun cuisine left a lasting impression.
Imagine a cozy evening where the family is gathered around the table, eagerly awaiting dinner. The rich aroma of garlic, chicken, and sausage sizzling in olive oil fills the kitchen, promising a delightful meal ahead. This Cajun Chicken Alfredo is a delightful fusion of creamy Alfredo and spicy Cajun flavors, creating a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
One of the things I love most about this recipe is its versatility. The addition of Cajun seasoning adds a zesty kick that can be adjusted to suit your taste. If you’re like me and enjoy a bit of extra spice, feel free to add a little more Cajun seasoning. On the other hand, if you’re serving it to kids or those with a milder palate, you can dial it back a bit.
This dish also features slices of cooked sausage, which not only add depth to the flavor but also make it even more satisfying. And let’s not forget the finishing touches: a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshly grated parmesan cheese that melts into the sauce, creating a luscious, creamy texture.
Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight dinner, this Cajun Chicken Alfredo is sure to impress. It’s quick, easy to make, and packed with flavors that will transport you straight to the heart of Louisiana. So grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!
How to Make Cajun Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 cup cooked sausage, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, chopped
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cups penne pasta, cooked
- 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning
- 1 cup parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh parsley
Directions
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Add the chopped garlic, sliced sausage, and chicken breasts. Cook until the garlic begins to brown and the chicken is no longer pink.
Sprinkle the cajun seasoning over the sausage and chicken, stirring to coat them evenly.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a boil.
Add the cooked penne pasta, stirring until everything is well combined.
Finish by adding the parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Stir until the cheese melts and the pasta is coated with a thick sauce.
Serve and enjoy!
FAQs:
What type of sausage should I use for Cajun Chicken Alfredo?
You can use any type of cooked sausage, but Andouille sausage is traditionally used in Cajun dishes. Its smoky and spicy flavor complements the Cajun seasoning perfectly. However, if you prefer a milder taste, you can opt for smoked sausage or Italian sausage.
Can I substitute the heavy cream in Cajun Chicken Alfredo?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a combination of milk and butter to reduce the fat content. Nonetheless, using heavy cream provides a richer and creamier texture to the sauce, which is ideal for this dish.
How can I make Cajun Chicken Alfredo less spicy?
To make Cajun Chicken Alfredo less spicy, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning. Alternatively, you can choose a mild Cajun seasoning or add extra cream to balance the spiciness. Including more cheese can also help mellow the heat.
What other types of pasta can I use instead of penne?
While penne is a popular choice for its ability to hold sauce well, you can use other types of pasta like fettuccine, linguine, or rotini. Essentially, any pasta that you have on hand will work. The key is to ensure it’s cooked al dente to avoid mushiness.
Can I prepare Cajun Chicken Alfredo in advance?
Yes, you can prepare Cajun Chicken Alfredo in advance. To do this, cook the sauce and the pasta separately, then combine them when you’re ready to serve. Store the sauce and pasta in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the sauce on the stove and add the pasta, ensuring everything is heated through before serving.
Cajun Chicken Alfredo
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts thinly sliced
- 1 cup cooked sausage sliced
- 3 cloves garlic chopped
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 cups penne pasta cooked
- 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning
- 1 cup parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- ¼ cup fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Add the garlic, sausage, and chicken. Cook until the garlic starts to brown and the chicken is no longer pink.
- Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the sausage and chicken, stirring to coat them evenly.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a boil.
- Add the cooked pasta, stirring until everything is well combined.
- Finish by adding the parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Stir until the cheese melts and the pasta is coated with a thick sauce.
- Serve and enjoy!
