If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and creamy comfort all in one pot, this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with juicy chicken, spicy and smoky sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a perfectly seasoned blend of Cajun spices, this pasta delivers an irresistible combination of textures and tastes that dance on your tongue. It’s a lively meal that comes together quickly, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner that will impress your family and friends without keeping you in the kitchen for hours.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet incredibly important to bring out the authentic, spicy, and rich flavors that define this dish. Each element plays a key role, from the creamy cheese and the robust sausage to the fresh parsley that brightens things up at the end.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cubed): Tender pieces provide lean protein and soak up the Cajun seasoning beautifully.
- 14 ounces hot smoked sausage (sliced): Adds a smoky kick that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sauce, and andouille is an ideal choice.
- 2 bell peppers (red and green, sliced): Bring vibrant color and a subtle sweetness that balances the spice.
- 1 cup diced yellow onion: Lends a savory base flavor when cooked with the other ingredients.
- 1 pound campanelle pasta (uncooked): Its unique shape holds sauce wonderfully, keeping every bite flavorful.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Infuses the pasta as it cooks, creating a flavorful but not overpowering base.
- 1 cup dry white wine: Adds acidity and depth, lifting the entire dish with complex notes.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning mix: This house blend packs the signature spice profile essential to the dish.
- 1½ cups freshly shredded Parmesan cheese: Melts into the dish for a luscious, salty creaminess.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Adds richness that turns this pasta into a velvety indulgence.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley: Offers freshness and a pop of color at the very end.
- 1¼ teaspoons garlic powder: Enhances savory notes, complementing the Cajun flavors.
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Controls the heat level with a subtle fiery kick.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Deepens the onion flavor without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings a mild herbal earthiness.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky undertone and beautiful color.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: A final touch of spice to round out the seasoning.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste): Balances all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Mix Your Cajun Seasoning
Start by combining garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, oregano, paprika, black pepper, and kosher salt in a small bowl. This blend is the secret to giving your pasta that authentic Cajun zing that wakes up every ingredient.
Step 2: Combine and Cook Everything Together
In a large Dutch oven or deep braising pan, toss together the cubed chicken, sliced sausage, bell peppers, diced onion, uncooked campanelle pasta, chicken broth, dry white wine, and the Cajun seasoning mix. Give everything a good stir to spread the spices evenly. Cover the pot and bring the mixture to a boil to kickstart cooking the pasta and infuse the meat with flavor.
Step 3: Let the Pasta Cook to Perfection
Remove the lid once boiling and simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the pasta is al dente, which should take about 10 to 12 minutes. You want the pasta just tender enough to melt in your mouth but still hold a pleasant bite.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese and Cream
Take the pot off the heat and immediately stir in freshly shredded Parmesan cheese. You’ll love how it melts into a gorgeous, creamy sauce around the pasta and meats. Then, add the heavy cream and stir again to create that rich, velvety texture that makes this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe a true comfort dish.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle the chopped fresh Italian parsley over the top to add a fresh herbal note and a beautiful splash of color that brightens the entire dish.
How to Serve Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
While the parsley is the classic garnish for this pasta, you can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan or even a dash of smoked paprika for added aroma and appeal. A few sliced green onions or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can add brightness and elevate the flavors even more.
Side Dishes
This dish is quite filling on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or some buttery garlic bread makes it even more special. Roasted vegetables with a hint of lemon or a simple coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy Cajun pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve portions of the Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe in small cast-iron skillets or rustic bowls to keep the warmth and add to the dish’s comforting vibe. You could also top individual servings with crispy fried shallots or crushed red pepper flakes for extra texture and heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh and tasty for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to blend even more during this time, making leftovers a delicious second meal.
Freezing
If you want to save some for longer, this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be aware that the texture of seafood sausage might slightly change, but the flavors will remain wonderful.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir frequently to avoid sticking, and reheat just until warmed through to keep that creamy, luscious texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use different types of sausage in this recipe?
Absolutely! While hot smoked sausage like andouille is traditional and imparts fantastic smoky flavor, you can experiment with other varieties such as kielbasa or chorizo. Just keep in mind how spicy or smoky those sausages are when adjusting your seasoning.
What can I substitute for the dry white wine?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can replace it with more chicken broth or even a splash of apple cider vinegar to maintain the acidity and depth. The flavor might be slightly different but still delicious.
Is this dish very spicy?
The heat level is customizable. The Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper add a noticeable kick, but if you prefer milder food, reduce the cayenne or omit it altogether. You can always sprinkle some hot sauce at the table if you want more heat.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the campanelle pasta for a gluten-free pasta alternative. Keep an eye on the sausage ingredients to ensure they don’t contain gluten. The rest of the recipe is naturally gluten-free.
How can I make this dish creamier?
For an extra creamy texture, you can add more heavy cream or stir in a dollop of cream cheese during the finishing step. Just add slowly and adjust to your preferred consistency and taste.
Final Thoughts
There’s something so utterly satisfying about this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe that keeps me coming back to it. It’s the perfect blend of spicy, smoky, creamy, and fresh that can turn any ordinary night into a cozy celebration of flavors. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and fall in love with it as much as I have, making it a staple in your meal rotation.
Print
Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 7 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Description
A flavorful and hearty Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta combining tender chicken breast, spicy smoked sausage, and vibrant bell peppers in a creamy, cheesy sauce infused with robust Cajun spices. Perfect for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner that serves 8.
Ingredients
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 recommended)
- 1 cup diced yellow onion
- 1 pound campanelle pasta, uncooked
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup dry white wine (chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, or pinot grigio)
- 1½ cups freshly shredded Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley
Cajun Seasoning Mix
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning mix (combine the following ingredients)
- 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 (adjust to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare Cajun Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, black pepper, and kosher salt. Stir well and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients in Pan: In a Dutch oven or 12-inch braising pan, add the cubed chicken, sliced sausage, bell peppers, diced onion, uncooked campanelle pasta, low-sodium chicken broth, white wine, and the prepared Cajun seasoning mix. Stir everything together to evenly distribute the spices and ingredients.
- Cook Pasta and Meats: Cover the pan and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, remove the cover and continue to cook uncovered. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking, and cook until the pasta is al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes.
- Add Cheese and Cream: Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Then add the heavy cream and stir to fully combine, creating a rich and creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh Italian parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, ensuring each plate gets a generous portion of the cheesy, spicy pasta with chicken and sausage.
Notes
- Using campanelle pasta works best as it holds the sauce well, but any medium pasta shape can be substituted.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper amount in the Cajun seasoning for more or less heat based on preference.
- Low-sodium chicken broth helps control saltiness, especially since the sausage can be salty.
- Dry white wine adds acidity and depth; if you prefer, substitute with additional chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice.
- Cook pasta uncovered after boiling to reduce liquid and concentrate flavors.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
