Louisiana Chicken Pasta
A delightful dish featuring crispy chicken, vibrant veggies, and a rich, creamy sauce, this Louisiana Chicken Pasta is perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the chicken
- 4 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin Thin-cut chicken cutlets can work as a shortcut.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Brings a smoky, peppery heat to the dish.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs For extra crunch; seasoned breadcrumbs work well too.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Mix with panko for coating the chicken.
For the vegetables
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced Adds texture and flavor.
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped Use both red and yellow for color.
- 1 medium onion, chopped Adds sweetness to the dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced Enhances the flavor profile.
For the sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream Gives the sauce richness.
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth Helps control the saltiness.
- 2 tablespoons butter Used to make the roux.
- 2 tablespoons flour To create a roux for thickening.
For serving
- 12 ounces bowtie pasta Any pasta shape can be used.
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.
- Dredge in flour, dip in beaten eggs, and coat in panko mixed with grated Parmesan. Set aside.
Cooking
- Heat oil in a skillet and fry the chicken until golden brown and cooked through—about 4-5 minutes per side. Remove and keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add a tablespoon of olive oil and toss in garlic, mushrooms, bell peppers, and onion. Sauté until tender, around 5 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- While the veggies are sautéing, boil your pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously until it thickens.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and Cajun seasoning. Adjust seasoning to your liking.
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce along with the sautéed vegetables. Toss to coat everything in that creamy goodness.
- Slice up the crispy chicken and serve it on top of the pasta, garnishing with extra Parmesan if desired.
Notes
The dish shines on its own, but a fresh side salad or some crusty bread for dipping enhance it even more. Add a spritz of lemon for extra brightness. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for about 3 days. When reheating, add a touch more cream or chicken broth to keep the sauce velvety.