Craving a comforting yet flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes? Then look no further! This Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta is the perfect quick dinner idea, bursting with delicious Cajun spices and a creamy, dreamy sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds. It's a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest – easy, healthy, and unbelievably satisfying. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 pound andouille sausage, sliced (or your favorite spicy sausage)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Salt and black pepper to taste
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 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, garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Build the Sauce: Stir in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute more, stirring constantly. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), cream of mushroom soup, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has slightly thickened.
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Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken and sausage to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and stir to combine, ensuring the pasta is well coated in the creamy Cajun sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Garnish and Enjoy: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. For a milder dish, omit it altogether. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Add veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Use different sausage: Italian sausage, chorizo, or kielbasa would also be delicious in this recipe.
- Make it healthier: Use low-sodium ingredients and reduce the amount of heavy cream. You can also substitute it with milk or half-and-half.
- Meal prep friendly: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Simply store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta is a true crowd-pleaser – a delicious and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights or a casual weekend dinner. The combination of spicy sausage, tender chicken, and creamy sauce makes for a truly unforgettable taste experience. Enjoy!