Chili’s Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta

There’s something truly special about a dish that can transport you back to a favorite restaurant. For me, Chili’s Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta is one of those magical meals. I remember the first time I tried it; the creamy sauce and perfectly seasoned chicken enveloped the pasta, creating a comforting hug in a bowl. Since then, I’ve been on a quest to recreate that experience in my own kitchen. This dish is not just food; it’s a memory that brings back the warmth of family dinners and gatherings with friends. On busy weeknights, when I crave something hearty yet easy to make, this recipe comes to the rescue. I love how the flavors meld together, and the best part? You can prepare it in less time than it takes to pick up takeout!

Now, let’s dive into why this recipe stands out and why it has become a staple in my home.

Chili’s Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta Ingredients

The ingredients for Chili’s Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta come together to create a symphony of flavors. Each component plays its part to enhance the dish beautifully. The star players include chicken for protein, cajun seasoning for punchy flavor, and heavy cream for that delicious creaminess that ties everything together. Let’s take a closer look at each ingredient:

• 2 boneless and skinless chicken breasts: Tender and juicy, the chicken is the heart of this dish. It soaks up the flavors of the cajun seasoning and provides a protein-packed meal.
• 4 teaspoons cajun seasoning: This spice blend is essential for giving the chicken and the sauce its signature flavor. The spices work together to create that delightful kick.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided: Butter adds richness and depth to both the chicken and the sauce. It provides a luxurious base that enhances the overall taste.
• 3 cups heavy cream: The creamy sauce is what makes this dish so comforting. It envelops the pasta and chicken in a luscious texture that is simply irresistible.
• ½ teaspoon lemon pepper seasoning: A hint of citrus brightens the dish and cuts through the richness of the cream.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the dish.
• 1 teaspoon black pepper: A little kick to balance the creaminess and add warmth.
• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder: This adds depth and aroma without overpowering the other flavors.
• 8 ounces penne pasta, cooked and drained: The perfect pasta shape for this dish, as it holds the sauce well!
• 2 roma tomatoes, diced: Fresh tomatoes add a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
• ½ cup parmesan cheese, fresh shredded: Adds a salty, nutty flavor that elevates the dish even further.

Recipe Steps for Chili’s Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s jump into the cooking process! Making Chili’s Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta is a breeze when you follow these steps. You’ll enjoy the process as much as the delicious result!

1. Prep the Chicken: Start by rinsing the chicken under cold water, ensuring it’s clean. Place it in a Tupperware container or a large resealable bag. Add the cajun seasoning and shake to coat thoroughly. This step is crucial as it allows the chicken to absorb all the wonderful spices.

2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add the seasoned chicken. Cook until golden brown, turning as needed. Use a knife to check the inside; it should no longer be pink when done. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!

3. Make the Sauce: When the chicken is almost done, take another saucepan and combine the heavy cream, the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, lemon pepper seasoning, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. Stir well and allow it to simmer until the mixture begins to bubble. This is where the magic happens, as all the ingredients meld together beautifully.

4. Add the Pasta: Once the sauce is bubbling, add the cooked penne pasta to the saucepan. Remove from heat and stir well to combine, ensuring every piece of pasta is coated in that creamy goodness. You’ll want to taste a little at this point to see how the flavors have developed!

5. Cut the Chicken: Once the chicken is fully cooked, transfer it to a cutting board. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing it into thin strips. This will help retain the juices and keep the chicken tender.

6. Plate It Up: Now comes the fun part! Spoon the creamy pasta onto a plate and top it with slices of the cooked chicken. Sprinkle diced tomatoes and fresh parmesan cheese on top. If you love a good kick, add a little more cajun seasoning for garnish. This dish is best enjoyed with a side of Texas garlic toast!

Helpful Notes about Chili’s Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta

Ready to make your own Chili’s Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta? Here are some helpful notes that will ensure your dish comes out perfectly every time!

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to three days.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta to maintain texture. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve this dish with a fresh garden salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cajun seasoning to suit your taste; you can make it milder or spicier as desired.
• Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu and skip the meat seasoning.
• Cooking Method: This recipe can be adapted for the Instant Pot for even quicker preparation!

Best Served With

When it comes to serving Chili’s Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta, there are plenty of delightful options to elevate your meal:

• Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and adding a crunchy texture that balances the dish well.
• Caesar Salad: A fresh Caesar salad complements the richness of the pasta, providing a crisp and refreshing contrast.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled vegetables can add color and nutrition to your plate, making it a well-rounded meal.
• Wine Pairing: If you enjoy a glass of wine, a chilled white wine pairs nicely with the spicy flavors of Cajun seasoning.
• Family Gatherings: This dish is ideal for family dinners or gatherings – it’s a crowd-pleaser!
• Game Day: Serve this during game day parties for a hearty option that will impress your guests.

FAQ

Conclusion

Chili’s Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta is a true crowd-pleaser that brings together creamy, spicy flavors and tender chicken in a satisfying way. This recipe is perfect for those weeknight dinners when you want something comforting yet easy to prepare. I encourage you to give it a try and experience the joy it brings to your table. You won’t be disappointed!

Chili's Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta

The ultimate comfort food is here with Chili's Copycat Cajun Chicken Pasta. Creamy, spicy, and utterly satisfying, this easy weeknight dinner will have you craving more! Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in, don’t miss out on making this dish tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: American

Calories: 650

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 Chicken Breasts boneless and skinless
• 4 teaspoons Cajun Seasoning
• 4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter divided
• 3 cups Heavy Cream
• ½ teaspoon Lemon Pepper Seasoning
• 1 teaspoon Salt
• 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
• ¼ teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 8 ounces Penne Pasta cooked and drained
• 2 Roma Tomatoes diced
• ½ cup Parmesan Cheese fresh shredded

Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden Spoon
• Mixing Bowl
• Cutting Board
• Frying Pan

Method

 

1. Prep the Chicken: Rinse the chicken in water and put in a Tupperware container or large resealable bag. Add the cajun seasoning and shake to coat thoroughly.
2. Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, melt the 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and turn when needed. Make sure to check with a knife to make sure it is no longer pink.
3. Make the sauce: When the chicken is almost done, in a saucepan combine the heavy cream, 2 Tbs butter, lemon pepper, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder. When the cream mixture begins to bubble, add the pasta and remove from heat stirring well.
4. Cut the Chicken: Once chicken is cooked, cut thin strips on cutting board.
5. Plate it up: Spoon the pasta onto a plate and top chicken, diced tomatoes and parmesan. Sprinkle with more cajun seasoning if desired! Best when served with a side of Texas garlic toast.

Notes

• Tip 1: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
• Tip 2: This dish can be frozen, but it's best to freeze the sauce separately from the pasta.
• Tip 3: Serve this dish with a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
• Tip 4: Adjust the amount of cajun seasoning to suit your taste; make it milder or spicier as desired.
• Tip 5: For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.

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Meet Carmen Rhoades

Precision is key to a perfect feast, and I apply that rigor to everything I do here. I am deeply involved in measuring, timing, and refining the techniques behind our recipes. I have cooked this dish multiple times, troubleshooting every step so that your experience in the kitchen is seamless and successful.