Craving a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner? Look no further! This Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with spicy Cajun flavors, tender chicken, and savory sausage, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. It's a fantastic example of healthy meals that don't compromise on taste, making it one of the best recipes for a homemade cooking experience. Let's dive into this quick dinner idea!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced (or your favorite spicy sausage)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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Sauté the Chicken and Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sausage and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, oregano, and black pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
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Combine and Serve: Return the chicken and sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to heat through. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your liking. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more if you prefer a spicier dish. For a milder flavor, reduce the amount or use a less spicy sausage.
- Vegetable Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots.
- Protein Swap: Substitute the chicken with shrimp or turkey for a different protein option.
- Creamy Variation: For a creamier sauce, stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 18-22g
- Carbohydrates: 50-55g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta is a fantastic example of easy recipes that deliver big on flavor. It's a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner, a casual gathering, or even a weekend lunch. This recipe truly showcases the magic of homemade cooking, offering a delicious and satisfying meal without the fuss. Enjoy!