I discovered Cajun seasoning way too late in my life, but since a good friend from Louisiana opened my eyes to this amazing spice, I'm always on the lookout for great recipes that incorporate unique flavors from the Deep South. As a girl with a Mediterranean background, I got super excited when I discovered this recipe for Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. It's simple to make, takes about 25 minutes -- perfect for busy weekdays -- AND blends the best of New Orleans and Italy in one dish. Bring it on!
So, I'm going to be annoying and suggest that -- despite the fact that this recipe calls for any Cajun seasoning -- you make your own. Honestly, it's easy as pie to throw together the ingredients and, in my humble East Coast opinion, tastes a whole lot better. This recipe for Cajun seasoning comes from Food.com, as does the one that follows for the yummiest, creamiest Cajun chicken pasta you've ever had.
Cajun Seasoning Recipe
Ingredients:
2 teaspoons white pepper
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons cayenne pepper
2 teaspoons paprika
2 teaspoons ground black pepper
Instructions:
In the container of a blender or food processor, combine all the ingredients, and process on high speed until reduced to a fine powder.
Transfer to a container with a tight fitting lid and use as desired.
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta (yields 2 servings)
Ingredients:
2 boneless skinless chicken breast halves, cut into thin strips
4 ounces linguine, cooked al dente
2 teaspoons cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons butter
1 thinly sliced green onion
1 to 2 cups heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons chopped sun-dried tomatoes
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon dried basil
1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions:
Place chicken and Cajun seasoning in a bowl and toss to coat.
In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté chicken in butter or margarine until chicken is tender, about 5 to 7 minutes.
Reduce heat add green onion, heavy cream, tomatoes, basil, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, and heat through.
Pour over hot linguine and toss with Parmesan cheese.
Image via Brett Stevens/Corbis