Bring the vibrant flavors of the Bayou to your table with this Louisiana Chicken Pasta recipe. It masterfully blends spicy, savory notes with creamy textures, offering a delightful dish that’s sure to please. This recipe is perfect for those who love a little heat and a lot of flavor in their meals, combining classic Cajun spices with hearty ingredients for a truly satisfying dinner.
Sizzling Southern Flavors in One Dish
This Louisiana Chicken Pasta is more than just a meal; it’s an explosion of flavors. From the seasoned, fried chicken to the creamy, spicy sauce tossed with al dente penne, each element builds on the last to create a harmonious dish that’s bursting with character.
Pro Tips for Crafting the Perfect Louisiana Chicken Pasta
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate in buttermilk and Cajun seasoning for at least an hour to tenderize the meat and infuse it with spicy flavors.
- Even Cooking: Cut the chicken into even thickness before marinating to ensure uniform cooking.
- Sauce Consistency: For a perfectly thickened sauce, let the cream mixture simmer until it just starts to thicken before adding the cheese. This prevents the sauce from becoming too thick too quickly.
- Fresh Garnish: Don’t skip the fresh parsley garnish. It adds a bright, herbal touch that lifts the richness of the dish.
Louisiana Chicken Pasta Recipe:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes (plus 1 hour for marinating)
- Cooking time: 30 minutes
- Serving: 4 servings
- Equipment: Large skillet, shallow dish
This delectable dish is perfect for anyone looking to spice up their dinner routine with something special and flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Oil for frying
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 pound penne pasta, cooked al dente
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Directions:
- Marinate Chicken: Combine chicken breasts with buttermilk and 1/2 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning in a bowl. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare Flour Mixture: In a shallow dish, mix flour, the remaining 1/2 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, and paprika.
- Fry Chicken: Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off. Dredge in the seasoned flour. Heat oil in a skillet and fry the chicken over medium-high until golden, about 4-5 minutes per side. Set aside and keep warm.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté bell pepper, onion, and garlic until softened. Add red pepper flakes and cook for another minute.
- Make Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat, add Parmesan cheese, and stir until the sauce thickens.
- Combine and Serve: Slice chicken into strips. Toss with cooked pasta and creamy sauce. Garnish with parsley and serve.
A Taste of New Orleans at Home
Enjoy the robust flavors of Louisiana with this creamy, spicy chicken pasta, perfect for any night when you crave something comforting yet bold. It’s a complete meal that captures the essence of New Orleans cuisine right in your kitchen.
