Name: Easy Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast; ½ lb shrimp; ½ lb Andouille sausage; 3 tbsp Cajun spice blend; ½ red bell pepper; ½ green bell pepper; ½ red onion; 3 cloves garlic; ½ tsp kosher salt; ¼ tsp ground black pepper; 3 tsp canola oil; 1 medium tomato; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 lb fettucine pasta; parsley and leftover minced bell peppers

This easy cajun jambalaya pasta brings together the best of Cajun flavors with a quick and delicious twist. Perfect for a weeknight meal, it combines chicken, shrimp, and andouille sausage in a savory cajun spice blend, creating a mouth-watering dish that is sure to satisfy.

Photos of Easy Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe

You may need to visit the supermarket to find andouille sausage and the cajun spice blend, as they might not be commonly found in your pantry. Make sure to look for a high-quality sausage to really bring out the flavors. The rest of the ingredients like chicken breast, shrimp, bell peppers, and red onion should be available easily.

Ingredients For Easy Cajun Jambalaya Pasta

chicken breast: A lean source of protein that absorbs the cajun flavors well.

shrimp: Adds a seafood sweetness and texture that complements the other proteins.

andouille sausage: A smoked sausage that provides a spicy and smoky depth to the dish.

cajun spice blend: A mix of spices that gives the dish its signature heat and flavor.

red bell pepper: Adds a sweet and slightly fruity flavor with a vibrant color.

green bell pepper: Provides a slightly bitter flavor that balances the sweetness of the red pepper.

red onion: Adds a mild, sweet flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

garlic: Brings a pungent, aromatic flavor that infuses the dish.

kosher salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

ground black pepper: Adds a mild spiciness and depth to the dish.

canola oil: Used for sautéing the protein and vegetables, with a neutral flavor that doesn't overpower the dish.

tomato: Adds a fresh, acidic component that balances the richness of the proteins.

chicken broth: Provides a flavorful liquid base that ties all the ingredients together.

fettucine pasta: The base of the dish that absorbs the flavors of the sauce and proteins.

parsley: Used for garnish, adding a fresh, herbaceous note.

bell peppers: Leftover minced peppers are used for garnish to add color and a fresh crunch.

One reader, Drucill Sherry says:

This easy cajun jambalaya pasta recipe is a flavor explosion! The mix of chicken, shrimp, and sausage with the cajun spices is simply divine. Quick to make and absolutely delicious, it's perfect for a weeknight dinner. Highly recommend!

Drucill Sherry

Key Techniques for Making Easy Cajun Jambalaya Pasta

How to sear: Heat the skillet on high heat, add oil, and cook the meat until it forms a brown crust. How to cook pasta: Boil water, add pasta, and cook until al dente, then drain. How to mince garlic: Peel the garlic cloves, then finely chop them with a knife. How to dice vegetables: Cut the bell peppers, onion, and tomato into small, even pieces.

How To Make Easy Cajun Jambalaya Pasta

Missing the Louisiana flavors? Satisfy your cravings with this delicious cajun jambalaya pasta loaded with chicken, shrimp, and sausages in flavorful sauce.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1lbchicken breastcut into 2 pieces
½lbshrimpdeveined
½lbandouille sausagesliced into thick pieces
3tbspCajun spice blend
½red bell pepperdiced
½green bell pepperdiced
½red onionthinly diced
3clovesgarlicminced
½tspkosher salt
¼tspground black pepper
3tspcanola oil
1medium tomatodiced
1cupchicken broth
1lbfettucine pastacooked but not rinsed
parsley and leftover minced bell peppersfor garnish

Instructions

In a large bowl, add the chicken, shrimp, sausage, cajun spices, red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, garlic, Kosher salt and black pepper in a bowl and toss.
In a large skillet or a cast iron skillet add the canola oil on high heat.
In batches, sear off the chicken, shrimp and sausage for about 4 to 5 minutes until they’re cooked through.
Add the tomatoes and chicken stock to the pan with all the cooked ingredients.
Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, then add in the cooked pasta. Use tongs to coat the pasta with the sauce.
Garnish with parsley and leftover minced bell peppers if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 609.09kcal
Fat: 22.24g
Saturated Fat: 6.33g
Trans Fat: 0.10g
Monounsaturated Fat: 9.39g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.26g
Carbohydrates: 62.70g
Fiber: 3.38g
Sugar: 4.32g
Protein: 36.99g
Cholesterol: 119.13mg
Sodium: 754.34mg
Calcium: 64.08mg
Potassium: 614.07mg
Iron: 2.38mg
Vitamin A: 83.36µg
Vitamin C: 28.86mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Easy Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe

When searing the chicken, shrimp, and sausage, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet. Overcrowding can cause the ingredients to steam rather than sear, which will prevent them from developing a nice, flavorful crust. Cook in batches to ensure each piece gets a proper sear.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Cajun Jambalaya Pasta

Prep ingredients in advance: Chop the bell peppers, onion, and garlic ahead of time and store them in airtight containers.

Use pre-cooked sausage: Opt for pre-cooked andouille sausage to reduce cooking time.

Cook pasta simultaneously: Boil the fettuccine pasta while you sear the chicken, shrimp, and sausage.

One-pan method: After searing, use the same skillet to make the sauce, minimizing cleanup.

Batch cooking: Double the recipe and freeze half for a quick meal later.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe

Chicken breast - Substitute with turkey breast: Turkey breast has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable replacement in this dish.
Shrimp - Substitute with scallops: Scallops provide a similar seafood flavor and texture, complementing the other ingredients well.
Andouille sausage - Substitute with chorizo: Chorizo offers a similar spicy and smoky flavor, making it a good alternative to andouille sausage.
Cajun spice blend - Substitute with creole seasoning: Creole seasoning has a similar blend of spices and can provide the same flavor profile.
Red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell pepper has a similar sweetness and texture, maintaining the balance of flavors.
Green bell pepper - Substitute with poblano pepper: Poblano pepper adds a mild heat and similar texture, enhancing the dish with a slight twist.
Red onion - Substitute with yellow onion: Yellow onion has a similar flavor and texture, making it a suitable replacement.
Garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor, though fresh garlic is preferred for its robust taste.
Kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and flavor, making it an appropriate substitute.
Ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat and flavor, with a slightly different color.
Canola oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil has a similar cooking property and adds a slight flavor enhancement.
Tomato - Substitute with canned diced tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes provide a similar texture and flavor, especially when fresh tomatoes are not available.
Chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth offers a similar depth of flavor and can be used for a vegetarian version of the dish.
Fettucine pasta - Substitute with penne pasta: Penne pasta has a similar texture and can hold the sauce well, making it a good alternative.
Parsley - Substitute with cilantro: Cilantro provides a fresh, vibrant flavor that can complement the dish similarly to parsley.
Minced bell peppers - Substitute with minced celery: Minced celery adds a similar crunch and freshness, maintaining the texture balance in the dish.

Presentation Ideas for Cajun Jambalaya Pasta

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the cajun jambalaya pasta in a shallow, wide-rimmed bowl to allow the vibrant colors of the bell peppers and parsley to stand out. This also helps in controlling portion sizes, making it look elegant and refined.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with finely chopped parsley and a sprinkle of leftover minced bell peppers to add a pop of color and freshness. Place a few whole shrimp on top for visual appeal.
Layer the ingredients: Start by placing a small mound of fettuccine pasta in the center of the plate. Arrange the chicken, shrimp, and andouille sausage around the pasta in a visually appealing pattern.
Highlight the sauce: Drizzle the cajun sauce over the pasta and proteins, ensuring it is evenly distributed. Use a spoon to create artistic swirls with the sauce around the edge of the plate.
Add height: Stack the chicken, shrimp, and sausage slightly on top of each other to add height and dimension to the dish. This creates a more dynamic and visually interesting presentation.
Use high-quality utensils: Serve the dish with polished silverware and a crisp white napkin to enhance the dining experience. The utensils should complement the elegance of the presentation.
Incorporate texture: Add a few crispy garlic chips or toasted bread crumbs on top of the dish to provide a contrasting texture and an extra layer of flavor.
Balance the colors: Ensure that the colors of the red bell pepper, green bell pepper, red onion, and tomato are evenly distributed throughout the dish. This creates a visually balanced and appealing presentation.
Use a clean plate: Wipe the edges of the plate clean before serving to ensure there are no smudges or drips. A clean plate enhances the overall presentation and professionalism of the dish.
Serve immediately: Ensure the cajun jambalaya pasta is served hot and fresh. The steam rising from the dish adds an enticing element and enhances the aroma, making it more appealing to the diners.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Jambalaya Pasta

Large bowl: for tossing the chicken, shrimp, sausage, vegetables, and spices together.
Large skillet: for searing the chicken, shrimp, and sausage.
Cast iron skillet: an alternative to the large skillet for searing and cooking.
Tongs: for handling and tossing the pasta with the sauce.
Cutting board: for chopping the bell peppers, onion, garlic, and tomato.
Chef's knife: for chopping the vegetables and slicing the sausage.
Measuring spoons: for measuring the cajun spice blend, kosher salt, and black pepper.
Measuring cup: for measuring the chicken broth.
Pasta pot: for boiling the fettucine pasta.
Colander: for draining the cooked pasta.
Wooden spoon: for stirring the ingredients in the skillet.
Garlic press: for mincing the garlic cloves.
Serving platter: for presenting the finished jambalaya pasta.
Kitchen timer: for keeping track of cooking times.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Cajun Jambalaya Pasta

To store leftover jambalaya pasta, allow it to cool completely to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent the pasta from drying out. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
To freeze, portion the cooled jambalaya pasta into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn. Label the containers with the date and contents.
Frozen jambalaya pasta can be stored for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw the pasta overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little chicken broth or water to help revive the sauce.
For best results, freeze the jambalaya pasta without the shrimp. Cook the shrimp fresh when ready to serve and add it to the reheated pasta. This helps maintain the texture and flavor of the shrimp.

How To Reheat Leftover Cajun Jambalaya Pasta

Stovetop method: heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Add the leftover jambalaya pasta and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. If the pasta seems dry, add a splash of chicken broth or water to help moisten it.
Microwave method: place the desired amount of leftover jambalaya pasta in a microwave-safe dish. Cover the dish with a damp paper towel to prevent the pasta from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, or until the pasta is heated through. Be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the shrimp and chicken to become rubbery.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover jambalaya pasta in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes of baking to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the top to crisp up slightly.
Slow cooker method: if you have a large amount of leftover jambalaya pasta, you can reheat it in a slow cooker. Place the pasta in the slow cooker and add a small amount of chicken broth or water to help moisten it. Cover and cook on low for 1-2 hours, or until the pasta is heated through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to reheat the jambalaya pasta until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure that it is safe to consume. Additionally, you can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions on top of the reheated pasta to brighten up the flavors and add a fresh element to the dish.

Interesting Fact About Cajun Jambalaya Pasta

A fun fact about this Cajun jambalaya pasta recipe is that it combines the rich, spicy flavors of traditional Cajun cuisine with the comforting texture of pasta. This fusion dish is a modern twist on classic jambalaya, which typically features rice instead of fettuccine.

Is Making Cajun Jambalaya Pasta at Home Cost-Effective?

This easy cajun jambalaya pasta recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. With chicken breast, shrimp, and andouille sausage as the primary proteins, it offers a hearty meal. The use of bell peppers, red onion, and garlic adds flavor without breaking the bank. The fettucine pasta and chicken broth are affordable staples. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost: $25-$30 for a household of 4 people.

Is Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Healthy or Unhealthy?

This cajun jambalaya pasta recipe, while delicious, has some aspects that could be considered unhealthy. The dish is high in protein from the chicken, shrimp, and sausage, but the andouille sausage is typically high in fat and sodium. The recipe also calls for a significant amount of cajun spice blend, which often contains a lot of salt. Additionally, the dish is served over fettuccine pasta, which is a refined carbohydrate that can cause blood sugar spikes and provide little nutritional value.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap the andouille sausage for a leaner protein like turkey sausage or additional chicken breast
Use whole wheat or legume-based pasta instead of traditional fettuccine to increase fiber and nutrient content
Reduce the amount of cajun spice blend used, or make your own blend with less salt and more herbs and spices like paprika, thyme, and oregano
Increase the amount of vegetables in the dish by adding more bell peppers, onions, and even some leafy greens like spinach or kale
Use a low-sodium chicken broth to reduce the overall salt content of the dish
Serve the jambalaya over a bed of cauliflower rice or quinoa for a lower-carb, nutrient-dense option

Editor's Opinion on This Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe

This easy Cajun jambalaya pasta recipe is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the robust spices of Cajun cuisine with the comforting texture of pasta. The use of chicken, shrimp, and andouille sausage ensures a rich and varied protein profile, while the bell peppers and red onion add a fresh, vibrant crunch. The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for home cooks, yet it delivers a complex and satisfying dish. The final touch of parsley and minced bell peppers adds a fresh, colorful garnish that enhances both the presentation and flavor.

Enhance Your Easy Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Cornbread Muffins: Imagine the warm, golden cornbread muffins fresh out of the oven, their slightly sweet and crumbly texture providing the perfect contrast to the spicy, savory cajun jambalaya pasta. A dollop of honey butter melting on top would be the ultimate indulgence.

Collard Greens: A side of collard greens, slow-cooked with a hint of smoked ham hock and a splash of apple cider vinegar, would bring a delightful, earthy balance to your meal. The greens' slight bitterness and tender texture would complement the rich flavors of the jambalaya pasta beautifully.

Cajun Corn Maque Choux: Add a touch of Louisiana flair with cajun corn maque choux. This vibrant dish, featuring sweet corn, bell peppers, and a hint of cream, would provide a creamy, slightly sweet counterpoint to the bold spices of the jambalaya pasta.

Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries, lightly dusted with cajun seasoning, would offer a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness. Their vibrant orange hue and caramelized edges would make them a visually appealing and tasty addition to your main course.

Banana Pudding: For a sweet finish, consider a classic banana pudding. Layers of vanilla wafers, sliced bananas, and creamy custard topped with a cloud of whipped cream would provide a comforting and nostalgic end to your cajun jambalaya pasta feast.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Like Cajun Jambalaya Pasta

Cajun Chicken Alfredo: Craving a creamy twist on your favorite Cajun dish? This Cajun Chicken Alfredo combines tender chicken breast with a rich, creamy sauce and a hint of spice. Perfectly paired with fettuccine pasta, it's a comforting meal that brings a taste of Louisiana to your table.

Shrimp Etouffee: Dive into the flavors of the Gulf Coast with Shrimp Etouffee. This classic Creole dish features succulent shrimp simmered in a savory roux-based sauce with bell peppers, onions, and celery. Serve it over a bed of steamed rice for a meal that's both hearty and satisfying.

Andouille Sausage Gumbo: Warm up with a bowl of Andouille Sausage Gumbo. This Louisiana staple is packed with smoky andouille sausage, okra, and a medley of vegetables. The rich, flavorful broth is thickened with a traditional dark roux, making it a perfect dish for a cozy night in.

Cajun Shrimp Tacos: Spice up your taco night with Cajun Shrimp Tacos. These tacos are filled with juicy shrimp seasoned with a zesty Cajun spice blend, topped with crisp slaw and a drizzle of creamy sauce. Wrapped in warm tortillas, they offer a delightful mix of textures and flavors.

Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya: Experience the essence of Louisiana with Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya. This one-pot wonder combines chicken breast, andouille sausage, bell peppers, and rice in a flavorful tomato-based sauce. It's a hearty, satisfying dish that's perfect for feeding a crowd.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Cajun Jambalaya Pasta

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine plump mushrooms filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. These delightful bites are then baked to perfection, creating a creamy and flavorful filling that contrasts beautifully with the earthy mushroom caps. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese on top adds a touch of elegance and a satisfying crunch.

Bruschetta: Picture slices of toasted baguette topped with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, and garlic. Drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and a hint of balsamic glaze, these appetizers burst with fresh, zesty flavors. The combination of the crispy bread and the juicy tomato topping makes for a delightful contrast in textures.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in the rich, molten center of a Chocolate Lava Cake. This decadent treat features a warm, gooey chocolate core that oozes out with each bite, creating a perfect harmony of textures. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of raspberry sauce for an added layer of flavor. The contrast between the warm cake and the cold ice cream is simply irresistible. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and a dusting of powdered sugar to elevate the presentation.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Delight your taste buds with a Lemon Meringue Pie. This classic dessert combines a tangy lemon curd filling with a light, fluffy meringue topping. The buttery, flaky crust provides a perfect base, while the meringue is toasted to a golden brown, adding a touch of elegance. Serve chilled for a refreshing end to your meal. Add a twist by incorporating a hint of lavender or a sprinkle of zest on top for a unique flavor profile. Pair with a cup of herbal tea for a complete experience.

Why trust this Easy Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe:

This easy cajun jambalaya pasta recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a flavorful and satisfying meal. With a perfect blend of chicken, shrimp, and andouille sausage, it offers a rich and hearty taste. The cajun spice blend adds a delightful kick, while the bell peppers and red onion provide a fresh crunch. The chicken broth and tomatoes create a savory sauce that coats the fettucine pasta beautifully. This recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delicious result every time.

Share your thoughts on this Easy Cajun Jambalaya Pasta Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of fettuccine?

Absolutely! You can use any pasta you like. Penne, linguine, or even spaghetti would work well with this recipe.

How spicy is this dish?

The spiciness depends on the cajun spice blend you use. If you prefer a milder dish, you can reduce the amount of cajun spice or choose a milder blend.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time. Just keep the pasta and the sauce separate until you're ready to serve. Reheat the sauce and then toss it with the pasta.

What can I use as a substitute for andouille sausage?

If you can't find andouille sausage, you can use any smoked sausage or even chorizo for a different flavor profile.

How do I know when the shrimp and chicken are cooked through?

The shrimp will turn pink and opaque, and the chicken should be white all the way through with no pink in the center. If you're unsure, you can use a meat thermometer; the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.