Cajun Chicken Pasta Red Lobster Recipe Made Easy

Originally posted on July 17, 2022 @ 5:34 pm

If you’re craving a dish that’s creamy, spicy, and packed with bold flavors, the Cajun Chicken Pasta from Red Lobster is an absolute must-try. This iconic recipe combines tender, perfectly seasoned chicken with al dente pasta and a rich, creamy sauce infused with Cajun spices that deliver just the right amount of heat.

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish never disappoints. The harmony of spices, cream, and fresh ingredients creates a mouthwatering experience that’s both satisfying and indulgent.

In this post, I’ll walk you through a detailed recipe to recreate Red Lobster’s famous Cajun Chicken Pasta right in your own kitchen. From the essentials you’ll need to the step-by-step instructions and helpful tips, you’ll have everything at your fingertips to make this delicious meal with ease.

Let’s dive into the wonderful world of Cajun flavors and creamy pasta perfection!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe is a perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and savory elements that makes it irresistible. The chicken is marinated with authentic Cajun seasoning, giving it a smoky, zesty kick.

The sauce is a luscious mix of cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, coating every strand of pasta with a velvety texture.

What sets this dish apart is its balance of flavors—bold enough to excite your taste buds but creamy enough to soothe them. It’s a restaurant-quality meal you can easily prepare at home.

Plus, it’s versatile—you can add shrimp or vegetables to customize the dish to your liking. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, date nights, or anytime you want a comforting, flavorful meal.

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 8 ounces fettuccine pasta (or your favorite pasta)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
• 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Chef’s knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander or strainer
• Grater for Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken strips dry with a paper towel. Sprinkle evenly with Cajun seasoning, ensuring all sides are coated. Set aside to marinate for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat.
2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining. Drain the pasta and set aside.
3. Sauté the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Sauté the peppers and garlic: In the same skillet, add the diced red and green bell peppers. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
5. Make the sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits. Slowly add the heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Add cheese and seasoning: Gradually stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens. Add crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper to taste. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
7. Combine pasta and chicken: Return the cooked chicken strips to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.
8. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy your homemade Cajun Chicken Pasta!

Tips & Variations

For an extra kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.

You can swap the chicken for shrimp or a combination of both for a seafood twist. Adding vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or cherry tomatoes will add freshness and color to the dish.

Use gluten-free pasta if you need a gluten-free option.

To make your own Cajun seasoning, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Adjust the cayenne to control the heat level.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Cajun Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad to balance the richness of the sauce. For a lighter touch, serve alongside steamed or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli.

To elevate the meal, consider a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light beer, which complements the spicy and creamy flavors well.

Conclusion

The Cajun Chicken Pasta inspired by Red Lobster is a delightfully creamy and flavorful dish that brings the best of Cajun cuisine to your dinner table. It’s an excellent choice for those who love a little spice, a lot of comfort, and a hearty meal that satisfies every craving.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all levels. You can tailor the spice level and ingredients to your personal preference, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection.

Once you try this dish, it’s sure to become a favorite go-to for busy weeknights or special occasions!

Looking to try more delicious homemade dishes? Check out these recipes for more inspiration: Homemade Garlic Butter Shrimp, Creamy Parmesan Chicken, and Classic Caesar Salad.

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