Experience a Taste of NOLA with Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This creamy Cajun chicken pasta dish is bursting with big bold Louisiana flavors. Tender chicken and sausage are simmered in a tomato cream sauce punched up with the Southern cajun holy trinity of onion, celery and bell pepper. Toss it with pasta and you’ve got a mouthwatering meal with an authentic NOLA flair. The savory, spicy and creamy flavors all mingle together in soul warming harmony. Let's talk about recreating this delicious Cajun classic at home!

Select the Main Ingredients

For this recipe, you'll need:

- Boneless, skinless chicken thighs

- Andouille or other smoked sausage

- Onion, celery, bell pepper

- Cream, tomatoes, chicken broth

Pick Your Pasta

Penne, farfalle, rotini all work well. Go with your favorite!

Sauté the Aromatic Cajun Trinity

Sauté chopped onion, celery and bell pepper in olive oil until softened. This classic cajun mixture builds amazing flavor.

Add a Little Heat

Mix in some spicy seasonings like cayenne and paprika to the veggies.

Brown the Chicken and Sausage

Add diced chicken thighs and sliced sausage to the pot. Cook until nicely browned. Then stir in garlic and Cajun seasoning blend.

Big Bold Flavors

The savory meats, spices and infused oil create an incredible flavor base.

Simmer in Creamy Tomato Sauce

Stir in tomatoes, cream, broth and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes. The sauce comes together beautifully.

Rich and Saucy

The combo of cream and tomatoes creates the ideal luscious sauce for the Cajun flavors.

Toss with Cooked Pasta

Mix in your cooked pasta of choice right in the sauce pot until coated. Sprinkle with green onion and more Cajun seasoning. Dinner is served!

Top Tips for Success

- Use andouille or spicy sausage

- Sauté the cajun trinity as flavor base

- Simmer chicken in sauce until cooked through

- Toss with cooked pasta right before serving

- Garnish with green onions and more seasoning

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead?

You can, just watch closely so they don't overcook and dry out.

What kind of sausage is best?

Andouille or another smoked sausage works great. Go spicy!

Is Cajun seasoning a must?

It really brings the authentic NOLA flavor, but you can sub your own blend.

How long will leftovers last?

Store covered in fridge 3-4 days. The flavors improve!

Can I prep the sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Cook sauce then toss with pasta and chicken at end.

In Summary

With just a few cajun staple ingredients like the trinity veggies and spicy sausage, you can make an amazing mouthwatering Cajun chicken pasta dish. The creamy, spicy and savory flavors all combine for a soul-warming meal with a taste of New Orleans.