If you’ve been craving a dish that combines bold flavors with comforting textures, this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant, hearty meal that perfectly balances the smoky richness of sausage, tender chicken, and the warming spice of Cajun seasoning, all tossed with tender pasta in a creamy, cheesy sauce. This dish is like a little celebration in your bowl, packed with layers of flavor that will keep you coming back for seconds and maybe even thirds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right ingredients for this recipe is easier than you might think, but each one plays an essential role. From the savory proteins to the fresh veggies and bold spices, every component adds its own magic to the mix — making the flavors sing and the textures inviting.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Cubed for quick cooking and tender bites throughout the pasta.
- Hot smoked sausage (like andouille): Adds smoky depth and spicy kick.
- Bell peppers: Red and green peppers bring bright color and a sweet crunch.
- Diced yellow onion: Builds the savory foundation with a mild sweetness.
- Campanelle pasta: Its bell-shaped curves capture the creamy sauce beautifully.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Provides a flavorful cooking liquid that keeps things moist.
- Dry white wine: Adds a delicate acidity and layers of complexity.
- Cajun seasoning mix: The spice blend that gives the dish its characteristic bold and zesty taste.
- Freshly shredded Parmesan cheese: Melts into the pasta creating creamy, savory richness.
- Heavy cream: Lends softness and indulgent texture.
- Chopped fresh Italian parsley: Finishes the dish with a pop of freshness and color.
- Garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, black pepper, kosher salt: These spices work together to create that unforgettable Cajun seasoning mix.
How to Make Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Mix Your Cajun Spice Blend
Start by combining garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, black pepper, and kosher salt in a small bowl. This homemade Cajun seasoning will pack that perfect spicy punch that defines the dish. Having this mix ready means every bite bursts with authentic flavor.
Step 2: Combine Cooking Ingredients
Next, toss the cubed chicken, sliced sausage, bell peppers, diced onion, uncooked campanelle pasta, chicken broth, white wine, and the Cajun spice mix into a Dutch oven or large braising pan. This one-pot approach not only saves time on cleanup but allows the flavors to mingle beautifully as the pasta cooks directly in the flavorful broth and wine.
Step 3: Cook Until Perfectly Tender
Cover the pot and bring everything to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, uncover and continue cooking until the pasta reaches an al dente texture, typically around 10 to 12 minutes. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to evenly distribute the ingredients, ensuring every bite is loaded with flavor and texture.
Step 4: Add Cream and Cheese for the Finishing Touch
After removing the pot from heat, stir in a generous helping of freshly shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the pasta. Then add half a cup of heavy cream, blending it in to create that rich, luscious sauce that clings to every piece of pasta. Sprinkle freshly chopped Italian parsley on top for a fresh, vibrant finish that elevates the entire dish.
How to Serve Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To truly make this dish pop, consider garnishing it with a little extra freshly chopped parsley or even some thinly sliced green onions. A light dusting of additional Parmesan cheese right before serving can also add an irresistible savory touch that your guests will adore.
Side Dishes
This Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe shines on its own, but pairing it with some crisp green salad or garlic bread can round out the meal beautifully. The fresh crunch and acidity of a simple salad help balance the rich and spicy pasta, while garlic bread provides a buttery, toasty counterpoint that’s great for sopping up every last bit of that creamy sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy family dinner, serve this pasta straight from the pot for a rustic feel. If you want to impress friends, plate it neatly in shallow bowls, giving each serving a sprinkle of parsley and a fresh lemon wedge on the side for a subtle zing. You could also transfer some to small individual gratin dishes, topped with a little extra Parmesan and broiled until golden for a crispy crust that adds texture contrast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe, you might find yourself with delicious leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll have a quick and flavorful meal ready to go for those busy days.
Freezing
If you want to save some for longer, freeze the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just keep in mind that the texture of the cream sauce can change slightly after freezing, so it’s best to reheat gently to maintain that creamy consistency.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta slowly on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it looks too thick. Avoid microwaving directly without adding liquid, as this can cause the sauce to separate. Stir frequently until warmed through and creamy once again.
FAQs
Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While campanelle works wonderfully to hold the sauce, other short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini will also work great. Just adjust the cooking time to reach al dente.
Is it possible to make this recipe without wine?
Yes, you can substitute the dry white wine with an equal amount of additional chicken broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar to maintain some acidity and flavor complexity.
How spicy is this dish?
The Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper give it a noticeable kick, but it’s easily adjustable. If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper or use a mild smoked sausage instead of hot sausage.
Can I prepare this recipe for a smaller gathering?
Certainly! This recipe yields about 8 servings, but you can halve or even quarter the ingredients to serve fewer people without compromising on flavor.
What can I add to make this dish even more flavorful?
Consider adding sautéed mushrooms, diced tomatoes, or even a splash of hot sauce to personalize the flavors. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can also add another dimension of aroma and taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that’s packed with bold flavors yet simple enough to prepare on a weeknight. The Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe fits that bill perfectly, offering a warm, satisfying meal that’s destined to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and watch how it brings smiles to your table and maybe even a few happy requests for seconds!
Print
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American Southern
Description
A hearty and flavorful Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta recipe that combines tender chicken, spicy smoked sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a blend of Cajun spices cooked in a rich, creamy sauce with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner that brings the taste of the South to your table.
Ingredients
Cajun Spice Mix
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning mix (recipe below)
- 1¼ teaspoons garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 14 ounces hot smoked sausage (like andouille), sliced
- 2 bell peppers (cored, seeded and sliced – red and green)
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 pound campanelle pasta (uncooked)
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup dry white wine (such as chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, or pinot grigio)
- 1½ cups freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley
Instructions
- Prepare Cajun Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine the garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, black pepper, kosher salt, and Cajun seasoning mix. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Combine Ingredients in Dutch Oven: Place the cubed chicken, sliced sausage, sliced bell peppers, diced onion, uncooked campanelle pasta, chicken broth, dry white wine, and prepared Cajun spice mix into a Dutch oven or 12-inch braising pan. Stir everything to combine well.
- Cook the Pasta and Meats: Cover the pan and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, remove the lid and continue to cook uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking. Cook until the pasta is al dente, approximately 10 to 12 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Cream: Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts and blends smoothly into the pasta. Then add the heavy cream and stir to combine fully, creating a creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh Italian parsley over the pasta for a fresh herbaceous finish. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use campanelle pasta or any similarly shaped pasta that holds sauce well.
- Adjust cayenne pepper for desired spiciness.
- Low-sodium chicken broth helps control the salt level in the dish.
- Substitute white wine with extra chicken broth if preferred.
- Cooking uncovered after boiling helps the sauce thicken as pasta cooks.
