Craving that creamy, dreamy Louisiana Chicken Pasta from the Cheesecake Factory but don't want to break the bank? This copycat recipe delivers all the delicious Cajun flavors you love, right in the comfort of your own kitchen! Get ready for a quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying meal that's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat. This easy recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and delicious dishes.
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4-6.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup chopped onion
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces pasta (penne, rotini, or your favorite shape)
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Get started:
- Cook your pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside. While the pasta cooks, you can prep the chicken and veggies.
Cook the Chicken and Veggies:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic, Cajun seasoning, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Create the Creamy Sauce:
- Stir in the cream of mushroom soup, milk, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat to low and add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce. Stir to coat everything evenly.
- Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- Don't be afraid to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your liking. Start with less and add more if needed.
- If you want a thicker sauce, simmer it for a few more minutes or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water.
- Add some cooked shrimp or andouille sausage for extra protein and flavor.
Variations:
- Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add 1 cup of cooked vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
- Spicy: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Creamier: Add an extra 1/4 cup of heavy cream.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This easy recipe for Louisiana Chicken Pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, transforming simple ingredients into a truly delicious and satisfying meal. Enjoy!