The Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the lively spices of Louisiana straight to your dinner table. Imagine tender chicken and smoky sausage mingling with colorful bell peppers and perfectly cooked pasta, all steeped in a creamy, cheesy sauce with a kick of Cajun seasoning. This recipe is a one-pot wonder, making it as easy to prepare as it is delightful to eat. Whether you’re craving a spicy weeknight dinner or something special to impress friends, this dish hits every mark with bold flavors and comforting textures.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe is simpler than you might expect, but each component plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. From the spicy sausage to the fresh bell peppers, these ingredients come together to deliver authenticity and richness in every bite.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cubed): Provides tender protein that soaks up all the fabulous seasonings.
- 14 ounces hot smoked sausage (like andouille, sliced): Adds smoky, spicy depth that’s crucial to the dish’s character.
- 2 bell peppers (red and green, sliced): Bring vibrant color and a subtle sweetness to balance the spice.
- 1 cup diced yellow onion: Offers a mellow pungency and texture contrast.
- 1 pound campanelle pasta (uncooked): The ruffled edges are perfect for capturing the creamy sauce.
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the dish moist while enhancing the savory flavors.
- 1 cup dry white wine (chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, or pinot grigio): Adds complexity and a slight acidity that lifts the dish.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning mix: The heart of the recipe’s spicy, aromatic profile.
- 1½ cups freshly shredded Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding a nutty, creamy richness.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Ensures a luscious, smooth sauce that ties all elements together.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley: A fresh, herbal finish that brightens the dish.
- 1¼ teaspoons garlic powder: Enhances savory depth without overpowering.
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Packs a subtle, fiery heat to awaken your palate.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts the overall umami appeal.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, aromatic note.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Provides smoky warmth and gorgeous color.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper: Offers a sharp, fragrant spice balance.
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste): Brings all the flavors into perfect harmony.
How to Make Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Make the Cajun Spice Mix
Start by combining the garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, black pepper, and kosher salt in a small bowl. This homemade Cajun seasoning is pure magic, giving the dish its signature punch of Southern flavor and allowing you to control the perfect level of heat.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Pan
In a large Dutch oven or 12-inch braising pan, toss the cubed chicken, sliced sausage, colorful bell peppers, diced onion, and uncooked campanelle pasta. Pour in the chicken broth and white wine, then sprinkle the Cajun seasoning mix over everything. Give it a good stir so all the ingredients play nicely together in one pot. Cover the pan and bring to a boil — this will help the pasta start cooking as it absorbs all those wonderful aromas.
Step 3: Cook Until Pasta is Al Dente
Once boiling, remove the lid and let the mixture simmer. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring every so often. You’re looking for the pasta to reach that perfect al dente texture, where it’s tender but still has a little bite. This step is crucial to making sure the dish doesn’t get mushy and maintains plenty of texture.
Step 4: Finish with Cheese, Cream, and Parsley
Take the pan off the heat and immediately stir in the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. The result is a beautifully creamy base that clings to every bite of pasta and protein. Then add the heavy cream, stirring it in for extra richness. Finally, sprinkle the chopped fresh parsley on top to add a burst of herbal freshness that contrasts perfectly with the rich, spicy sauce.
How to Serve Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
This dish really shines with garnishes that add both flavor and a touch of visual appeal. A little extra chopped parsley right before serving brightens each plate, while a light dusting of Parmesan cheese adds an irresistible savory touch. For those who like it extra spicy, a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce works beautifully.
Side Dishes
To round out your meal, consider pairing the Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe with some simple, crisp sides. A green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness perfectly, and crusty garlic bread or a warm baguette is great for soaking up every last bit of that luscious sauce. For a veggie boost, roasted or steamed asparagus or green beans add a nice crispness.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to make this dish a little special for guests or weeknight family dinners? Serve the pasta in rustic, shallow bowls to showcase the colorful meat and veggies. Adding edible flowers or microgreens on top can elevate the presentation. You might also try plating it alongside a simple garnish of lemon wedges to let guests add a burst of brightness if desired.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers from the Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe store beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making the next-day meal just as satisfying, if not more so. Be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain the best texture and freshness.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, this pasta freezes nicely. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and keep it for up to 2 months. When freezing, make sure the pasta is slightly undercooked initially so it doesn’t become overly soft after reheating. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally and adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if it feels too thick. Alternatively, microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between to heat evenly. This way, you preserve the creamy texture and bold flavors perfectly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While campanelle is fantastic for holding the sauce with its ruffled edges, other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or rotini also work wonderfully. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to keep the pasta al dente.
Is the Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe very spicy?
The spice level can be tailored to your taste. The recipe provides a nice medium heat thanks to the cayenne and Cajun seasoning, but you can reduce or increase the amount of cayenne pepper or leave out the sausage’s hotter varieties to suit your palate.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Swap out the campanelle pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta blend. Be mindful that cooking times might differ slightly, so cook the pasta just until al dente in the liquid as directed.
What wine pairs best with this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe?
For serving alongside this dish, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay complements the creamy, spicy flavors beautifully. If you prefer red, a light-bodied Pinot Noir is also a good match for the smoky sausage.
Can I prepare this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe in advance?
You can prep ingredients like slicing the sausage and chopping veggies ahead of time, but it’s best to cook the pasta and combine everything fresh to keep the textures perfect. If needed, make the dish entirely in advance and reheat gently as described.
Final Thoughts
Trying out this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Recipe is like giving your taste buds a joyful trip to the South with comforting, vibrant flavors in every forkful. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough for sharing with friends. Once you make it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without this wonderful blend of spice, creaminess, and hearty satisfaction. I can’t wait for you to enjoy it as much as I do!
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: Cajun
Description
This Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta is a flavorful one-pot meal combining tender chicken, spicy smoked sausage, colorful bell peppers, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce. The dish is cooked in a single pan with pasta, chicken broth, and white wine, creating a rich and hearty pasta dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Cajun Spice Mix
- 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 the Cajun Spice Mix: In a small bowl, thoroughly combine garlic powder, cayenne pepper, onion powder, dried oregano, paprika, black pepper, and kosher salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
- Combine Main Ingredients and Cook: In a Dutch oven or large 12-inch braising pan, add the cubed chicken, sliced smoked sausage, sliced bell peppers, diced onion, uncooked campanelle pasta, low-sodium chicken broth, dry white wine, and the reserved Cajun seasoning mix. Stir everything together to evenly distribute the seasoning. Cover the pan and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, remove the lid and continue to cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent pasta from sticking, until the pasta reaches al dente texture.
- Add Cheese and Cream: Remove the pan from heat. Immediately stir in the freshly shredded Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the pasta, creating a creamy sauce. Then, stir in the heavy cream to enrich the dish further.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the chopped fresh Italian parsley over the pasta to add a burst of freshness and color. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta.
Notes
- If you prefer less heat, reduce the cayenne pepper in the Cajun spice mix.
- Andouille sausage is traditional, but you can substitute with other smoked sausages.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the heavy cream and Parmesan or substitute with vegan alternatives.
- Make sure to stir occasionally while cooking to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Using campanelle pasta is recommended for catching the sauce well, but penne or rigatoni can be used as substitutes.
