Cajun Chicken And Pasta
A flavorful Cajun chicken and pasta dish featuring spicy seasoned chicken, tender vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce, perfect for a hearty, quick family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook rotelle pasta in boiling water for 12 to 15 minutes until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a 12-inch deep skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
- Add chicken pieces to the skillet, stirring frequently until browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove chicken and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, heat remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil; stir in flour.
- Cook for 5 minutes until flour is browned, but do not burn.
- Stir in the can of tomatoes with liquid, red bell pepper strips, green bell pepper strips, diced onion, salt, red cayenne pepper, and black pepper.
- Cook until vegetables are tender and the mixture thickens.
- Add drained pasta and cooked chicken to the skillet; toss to combine and warm through.
- Serve immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a spicier kick, consider adding more red cayenne pepper or swapping in a spicy sausage for the chicken. If you're out of rotelle macaroni, any pasta shape will work, though penne or fusilli are great alternatives. To enhance the dish's flavor, try adding some chopped garlic or a splash of hot sauce. Pair with a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Serving Suggestions
This Cajun Chicken and Pasta dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or warm sweet potato chips for a delightful crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside some garlic bread or a light, refreshing drink like Bubbling Party Punch. Garnish with fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out, and warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cajun Chicken And Pasta contains roughly 484 calories, with 11g protein, 75g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (63% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 834mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken in advance. Store them in the refrigerator and combine with freshly cooked pasta just before serving. This method helps maintain the pasta's texture and prevents it from becoming mushy.
What can I substitute for the chicken?
For a vegetarian option, you can replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu for added protein. Alternatively, use shrimp or a plant-based protein for a different flavor profile while keeping the dish hearty and satisfying.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To decrease the spice level, reduce the amount of red cayenne pepper or omit it entirely. For a milder flavor, consider using bell peppers and adding a touch of smoked paprika for depth without the heat. Adjusting spices allows you to cater to your taste preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).