Description
This creamy rattlesnake pasta blends the richness of a spicy Cajun cream sauce with juicy chicken, crisp peppers, and sun-dried tomatoes—all wrapped around tender penne pasta. It’s a comfort food with a bold kick, perfect for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
1 lb chicken breast
8 oz penne pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/3 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 green bell pepper, sliced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
1. Season sliced chicken breast with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add garlic, green bell peppers, and sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until tender.
4. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes. Let the sauce thicken, stirring occasionally.
5. While the sauce simmers, boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
6. Return cooked chicken to the skillet along with the pasta. Toss everything together until evenly coated in the sauce.
7. Simmer for 2–3 minutes to let flavors meld.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
Adjust red pepper flakes to control the spice level to your preference.
Swap in rotini or fettuccine if you don’t have penne on hand.
Add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to keep the sauce creamy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx.)
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: spicy pasta, Cajun pasta, creamy chicken pasta