Cajun Chicken Pasta from Chili's features tender grilled chicken seasoned with bold Cajun spices, tossed with creamy Alfredo sauce, sauteed bell peppers, and penne pasta, served with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a rich and flavorful dish.
Equipments
- Grill pan or grill
- Large pot
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Colander
- Chef's knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl
- Tongs
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Cheese grater
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 small red onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Chopped parsley (for garnish)
Using authentic Cajun seasoning is key to achieving the bold and spicy flavor that defines Cajun Chicken Pasta from Chili's. Fresh bell peppers and onions should be sauteed just until tender to preserve their natural sweetness and add vibrant color to your dish. Heavy cream and a blend of Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses create the rich, creamy Alfredo sauce essential for this recipe's signature texture. Be sure to cook the penne pasta al dente, as it will continue to soften when mixed with the sauce. Your homemade Cajun Chicken Pasta from Chili's copycat menu will capture the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and freshness for an irresistible meal.
Instructions
- Preheat grill pan or grill.
- Coat chicken breasts with olive oil and Cajun seasoning in a mixing bowl.
- Grill chicken until cooked through; set aside and slice.
- Boil water in a large pot; cook penne pasta until al dente, then drain in colander.
- Slice red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and red onion on cutting board with chef's knife.
- Mince garlic cloves.
- In large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic; sauté until tender.
- Pour in heavy cream; stir and let simmer.
- Add Parmesan and mozzarella cheese; stir until sauce thickens.
- Season sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Add cooked penne pasta to the sauce; toss to combine.
- Add sliced grilled chicken on top.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Cajun Chicken Pasta from Chili's copycat menu combines spicy grilled chicken with creamy Alfredo sauce, sauteed peppers, and penne for a satisfying meal. If fresh bell peppers are unavailable, you can substitute with frozen or roasted peppers to maintain flavor and texture. When heavy cream is inaccessible, a mixture of whole milk and cream cheese can be used to achieve a similar creamy consistency. You may also swap Parmesan cheese with Pecorino Romano or Asiago if needed, adjusting salt levels accordingly. Make sure to properly season the chicken to retain the dish's signature bold Cajun flavor during substitutions.
Tips
Ensure the chicken breasts are evenly coated with Cajun seasoning and olive oil to enhance the spicy flavor throughout the meat. When cooking penne pasta, time it precisely to achieve an al dente texture, avoiding mushiness that can affect the sauce's consistency. Saute the bell peppers, onion, and garlic until tender but not browned to maintain their natural sweetness and prevent bitterness. Toss your pasta thoroughly in the creamy Alfredo sauce before plating to ensure every bite is rich and flavorful, topped with your perfectly grilled Cajun chicken.
Nutritions
Cajun Chicken Pasta delivers a balanced nutritional profile with high protein content from the boneless, skinless chicken breasts and dairy-based cheeses like Parmesan and mozzarella. The heavy cream and butter contribute significant amounts of fats, enhancing the dish's creamy texture while increasing calorie density. Fiber and vitamins, especially vitamin C, are present from the sauteed red and green bell peppers and red onion. You can enjoy a flavorful meal that combines essential macronutrients but should be mindful of its richness due to the creamy sauce.
Storage
Store Cajun Chicken Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of preparation to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Your leftovers will stay good for up to 3-4 days, and reheating them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave preserves the creamy Alfredo sauce and tender chicken. Avoid freezing as the texture of the pasta and sauce may become compromised upon thawing.
Variation or Alternatives
You can vary the protein by substituting grilled shrimp or smoked sausage for the chicken, which adds different textures and flavors to the Cajun pasta. For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk, adjusting the cheese quantities accordingly to maintain creaminess. Roasting the bell peppers and onions before sauteing intensifies their sweetness and adds depth to the sauce. Consider using smoked paprika or chipotle powder to amplify the smoky notes in your Cajun seasoning blend.
Allergies
Cajun Chicken Pasta contains dairy ingredients such as heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese, which can trigger allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or milk allergies. The dish includes bell peppers and garlic, common allergens that may cause sensitivity or contact dermatitis in some people. You should always check for specific ingredient allergies before consuming this creamy, spice-infused pasta dish.
Why this recipe?
Cajun Chicken Pasta from Chili's restaurant is popular for its bold blend of blackened chicken, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta that creates a rich and satisfying flavor profile. This dish features a harmonious balance of smoky Cajun spices and smooth, cheesy sauce that appeals to fans of both spicy and comforting meals. Your taste buds will appreciate the authentic seasoning that makes it a standout item on the menu and worth recreating at home. Making a copycat version lets you enjoy this signature dish with fresh ingredients and personalized spice levels, offering a restaurant-quality experience in your own kitchen.