Description
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta features perfectly seasoned tender chicken, smoky turkey bacon, and melting plant-based cheese in a rich, creamy sauce infused with vibrant Cajun spices. A comforting and flavorful dish that is easy to prepare, versatile, and perfect for any weeknight or special gathering.
Ingredients
Protein and Main Ingredients
- Boneless chicken breasts or thighs – 1 lb, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- Smoked turkey bacon – 4 slices
- Pasta of your choice (penne or fettuccine recommended) – 12 oz
- Plant-based cheese (cheddar-style or mozzarella-style) – 1 cup, shredded
Vegetables and Aromatics
- Bell peppers – 1 cup, chopped
- Onion – 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic cloves – 3, minced
- Fresh parsley – 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)
Spices and Seasonings
- Cajun seasoning blend – 2 teaspoons
- Salt – 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste
- Black pepper – 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste
Liquids and Sauces
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Plant-based heavy cream – 1 cup
- Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) – 1 tablespoon
- Apple cider vinegar – 1 teaspoon
Additional
- Natural gelling agent – a pinch (optional, for sauce thickening)
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Chop the bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the smoked turkey bacon until crispy. Remove from the pan and set aside, reserving a little of the fat in the pan for flavor.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pan, add olive oil if needed. Sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers until softened and aromatic, about 4-5 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken with Cajun Seasoning: Add the chicken pieces to the vegetables along with the Cajun seasoning. Stir to coat everything well. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Pour in the plant-based heavy cream, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural), apple cider vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir gently and allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens slightly. Add a pinch of natural gelling agent if a thicker sauce is desired.
- Combine and Finish: Add the cooked pasta and crispy smoked turkey bacon back to the skillet. Toss everything carefully to coat evenly in the creamy sauce. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Season generously with Cajun spices for bold flavor.
- Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness when combined with the sauce.
- Use fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of freshness at the end.
- Prepare this dish all in one pan to reduce cleanup.
- Add a pinch of natural gelling agent if you want extra sauce thickness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 550 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 50 mg
Keywords: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, Spicy Chicken Pasta, Plant-Based Cheese Pasta, Smoky Turkey Bacon Pasta, Cajun Seasoned Pasta
