Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo: Bold and Comforting

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Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo: A Creamy, Spicy Comfort Dish

If you're craving something rich, flavorful, and comforting, this Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo is sure to hit the spot! This creamy pasta dish packs a punch with bold Cajun spices, juicy chicken, and savory smoked sausage all tossed in a luscious Alfredo sauce. Whether you're feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

I came across this incredible dish in a Facebook group called Family Cook Recipes, and I just knew I had to share it with you. It's one of those meals that brings everyone to the table, full of flavor with just the right amount of heat. If you're looking for a dinner that balances creamy and spicy perfectly, this is it!

A Little Background on Cajun Cuisine

Cajun cuisine is deeply rooted in the traditions of French-speaking Acadians who settled in Louisiana. It’s known for its hearty, rustic flavors, often using bold seasonings like cayenne, paprika, and garlic. Cajun dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and this Alfredo bring a sense of comfort, while offering layers of taste with every bite. Adding smoked sausage like kielbasa to the dish enhances that traditional Cajun taste, blending beautifully with creamy Alfredo sauce.

The Recipe: How to Make Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo

Here’s everything you need to make this indulgent meal.

Ingredients:

• 16 ounces fettuccine – cooked to al dente, with some pasta water reserved
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ¼ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ring (13.5 ounces) smoked sausage, or kielbasa, cut into ¼-inch pieces
• ¼ cup (½ stick / 57 g) unsalted butter
• 2 cups (476 g) heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 1 cup (100 g) parmesan cheese, grated
• Parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Cook the Fettuccine:
   Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, usually 8-10 minutes for al dente. Drain, but don’t forget to save 1 cup of pasta water for later!
2. Season and Cook the Chicken:
   While the pasta is cooking, season your chicken pieces with kosher salt, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, and once it’s hot, add the chicken. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, flipping halfway until fully cooked (165°F internally). Add your sliced smoked sausage, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until warmed. Remove the chicken and sausage from the pan and tent with foil to keep warm.
3. Prepare the Alfredo Sauce:
   In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream, cajun seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir to combine and bring to a slow rolling boil, allowing the sauce to thicken for about 6-8 minutes.
4. Combine Everything:
   Once your Alfredo sauce has thickened, stir in the grated parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce. Add your cooked fettuccine, chicken, and sausage back to the skillet, mixing everything together until well coated. Adjust the sauce with some of the reserved pasta water if it’s too thick.
5. Garnish and Serve:
   Top your Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color, and enjoy immediately!

Cooking Tips and Variations

• Adjust the Spice: If you prefer more heat, feel free to add more crushed red pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce. For a milder version, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild smoked sausage.
• Vegetarian Option: To make this dish vegetarian, simply skip the chicken and sausage, and consider adding sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for a hearty twist.
• Gluten-Free Swap: You can substitute gluten-free pasta for the fettuccine to accommodate gluten sensitivities.

Pairing Suggestions

To make this meal complete, serve your Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo with a side of garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad. For a refreshing drink pairing, try a cold glass of iced tea or even a light white wine like Pinot Grigio.

I hope you enjoy making (and eating!) this delicious Cajun Chicken and Sausage Alfredo recipe. If you do try it out, I’d love to hear what you think! Feel free to share your experience, and don’t forget to follow me for more amazing recipes. Let me know how it turns out by commenting below or sharing with your friends and family.