Get ready to experience a mouthwatering explosion of flavors with this Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe that can be easily prepared in a pressure cooker. In just a fraction of the time it takes to cook conventional pasta dishes, you’ll be indulging in a delicious blend of tender chicken, perfectly al dente pasta, and a rich, spicy Cajun sauce. With the convenience and speed of a pressure cooker, this recipe will become a go-to favorite for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a hearty and satisfying meal. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible recipe, packed with Cajun flair!
Ingredients
Chicken breast
The star of this Cajun chicken pasta recipe is tender and juicy chicken breast. Choose boneless, skinless chicken breast for quicker cooking and easier eating.
Cajun seasoning
Cajun seasoning brings the heat and flavor to this dish. Adjust the amount of seasoning based on your spice preference. If you enjoy a fiery kick, add a generous amount of Cajun seasoning. For a milder taste, use just a sprinkle.
Olive oil
Olive oil is the perfect cooking oil for this recipe. It adds a subtle richness to the dish and helps prevent the chicken from sticking to the pressure cooker.
Onion
The sweet and savory flavor of onion is a must-have in any Cajun dish. Dice a fresh onion to add depth and complexity to your Cajun chicken pasta.
Bell pepper
The vibrant colors of bell peppers not only add visual appeal but also contribute a satisfying crunch to each bite. Use a combination of different colored bell peppers to make your dish pop.
Garlic
Garlic brings its distinctive aroma and flavor to the dish. Chop or mince garlic cloves to infuse the Cajun chicken pasta with its rich and irresistible taste.
Celery
For a touch of freshness and a satisfying crunch, add celery to your Cajun chicken pasta. Dice the celery into small pieces to ensure it cooks evenly and adds just the right amount of texture.
Tomato sauce
Tomato sauce serves as the base of the sauce in this recipe. Its tanginess and vibrant red color help bring all the ingredients together into a harmonious and flavorful dish.
Chicken broth
Chicken broth adds depth and richness to the sauce. It enhances the savory flavors of the chicken and vegetables, taking the taste of this Cajun chicken pasta to the next level.
Heavy cream
To create a creamy and luscious sauce, add heavy cream towards the end of the cooking process. The creaminess perfectly balances out the spiciness of the Cajun seasoning.
Penne pasta
Penne pasta is the ideal choice for this Cajun chicken pasta recipe. Its shape allows for the sauce to cling to each pasta tube, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.
Salt and pepper
Salt and pepper are essential for enhancing the flavors of the dish. Season to taste and adjust according to your preference to achieve the perfect seasoning balance.
Preparation
Seasoning the chicken
Before cooking, generously season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. This step ensures that the flavors penetrate the meat and make every bite bursting with Cajun goodness.
Sautéing the vegetables
In your pressure cooker, heat olive oil over medium heat and add diced onion, bell pepper, garlic, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables become tender and fragrant, releasing their natural flavors.
Adding the chicken and pasta
Once the vegetables have softened, add the seasoned chicken breasts and penne pasta to the pressure cooker. Ensure that the chicken is nestled among the vegetables and the pasta is evenly distributed.
Cooking under pressure
Add tomato sauce and chicken broth to the pressure cooker. Close the lid tightly and set the pressure cooking function according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Let it cook under pressure until the chicken is cooked through and the pasta is al dente.
Releasing the pressure
Once the cooking time is complete, carefully release the pressure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Be cautious while doing this to avoid any accidents or burns.
Adding the cream and seasoning
After the pressure has been released, stir in the heavy cream to create a creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper if desired. Allow the flavors to meld for a few minutes.
Serving the Cajun chicken pasta
Garnish your Cajun chicken pasta with chopped fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese for added flavor and presentation. Serve the dish while it’s still warm and enjoy the explosion of Cajun flavors in every mouthful.
Tips
Choose boneless, skinless chicken breast for quicker cooking
Using boneless, skinless chicken breast saves you time during the cooking process. It also ensures that you can easily shred or slice the chicken for a more enjoyable eating experience.
Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference
Everyone has a different tolerance for spicy food. If you love a little extra heat, feel free to sprinkle in more Cajun seasoning. If you prefer a milder flavor, use a smaller amount. Tailor the seasoning to suit your taste buds.
Use a combination of different colored bell peppers for visual appeal
Incorporating a variety of bell pepper colors, such as red, yellow, and green, not only makes the dish visually stunning but also adds a range of distinct flavors. The mix of sweet and tangy tastes from different bell peppers elevates the overall taste of the Cajun chicken pasta.
Add some diced tomatoes or sliced mushrooms for extra flavor and texture
For a twist on the classic Cajun chicken pasta, you can add diced tomatoes or sliced mushrooms to the sautéed vegetables. These additions provide additional depth of flavor and a pleasant textural contrast to the dish.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese before serving
To add a touch of freshness and visual appeal to your Cajun chicken pasta, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the dish before serving. If you prefer a richer and creamier taste, a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese will do the trick. Choose your preferred garnish to enhance the flavors of the dish.
Now you’re equipped with all the information you need to make a delicious Cajun chicken pasta in a pressure cooker. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor the flavorful results. Bon appétit!