Applebee’s Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Are you ready to make a delicious Applebee’s Cajun Chicken Pasta?

This dish rocks because combines creamy pasta with spicy, flavorful chicken. Sooo good!

Be sure to marinate the chicken in Italian dressing for at least 30 minutes before cooking to infuse it with extra flavor.

Use fresh basil and tomatoes for the bruschetta topping—it really makes the dish pop!

Serve this pasta hot, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures.

How to Make Applebee’s Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 Chicken Breasts
• 3 tsp Cajun Seasoning
• 1 lb Linguine Pasta
• 2 tbsp Butter
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• 1 cup Grated Parmesan
• 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black Pepper (to taste)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley (chopped)
• 1 cup Diced Tomatoes (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Season the chicken breasts with cajun seasoning.

Ensure both sides are well coated for a burst of flavor.

Step 2:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add the chicken breasts and cook until fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.

Step 3:

In a large pot, cook the linguine pasta according to package instructions.

Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step 4:

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5:

Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a simmer.

Add grated Parmesan, salt, and black pepper, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

Step 6:

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat evenly.

Optionally, you can toss in some diced tomatoes for extra flavor.

Step 7:

Slice the cooked chicken into strips.

Serve the pasta on plates, topping with the sliced chicken and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Balance the Heat:

If you prefer a milder dish, you can use less cajun seasoning.

Alter the amount to fit your taste preferences comfortably.

Pasta Choice:

If you don’t have linguine, any long pasta like fettuccine or spaghetti will work.

Use whatever you have on hand.

Fresh Ingredients:

Fresh grated Parmesan adds a richer flavor compared to pre-grated cheese.

Minced fresh garlic also makes a significant difference.

Cream Alternative:

For a lighter option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

It won’t be as thick but still delicious.

Additional Veggies:

Feel free to add bell peppers, onions, or spinach to boost the nutritional content.

These vegetables complement the cajun seasoning well.

Enjoy your homemade Applebee’s Cajun Chicken Pasta!

What to Serve with Applebee’s Cajun Chicken Pasta

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a creamy and comforting side dish that balances the spiciness of the cajun chicken pasta.

Their smooth texture complements the robust flavors perfectly.

Consider adding gravy to enhance the pairing even further.

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread brings a crunchy texture and garlicky goodness to your meal.

It’s an ideal side to soak up the delicious sauce.

A great addition to elevate your meal.

Caesar Salad

A Caesar salad provides a refreshing and crisp contrast to your pasta.

The cool lettuce and tangy dressing cut through the richness of the dish.

It makes for a light yet flavorful side.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables can add a burst of flavor and color to your plate.

You can mix bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for a delightful medley.

The roasting brings out their natural sweetness, adding a unique twist.

Cornbread

Cornbread offers a sweet and slightly crumbly side that’s not commonly paired with cajun chicken pasta.

Its sweetness balances the spice, creating an enjoyable flavor combination.

A fun change from the usual side dishes.

Mango Salsa

Mango salsa is a fresh and vibrant concoction that pairs surprisingly well with the spicy pasta.

The sweet mango complements the heat beautifully.

Add a bit of lime juice and cilantro for an extra zing.

Grilled Pineapple

Grilled pineapple is an unconventional but delightful choice.

The caramelized sweetness of the pineapple gives a fantastic contrast to the pasta’s savoriness.

It’s an exciting and tasty treat to try!

Variations and Substitutions

Spice Level

If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the Cajun seasoning by half.

You can also use a blend of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder for less heat.

Protein Choices

Swap out the chicken for shrimp or andouille sausage for a different flavor profile.

To keep it vegetarian, use tofu or a variety of vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.

Dairy-Free Options

Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture without the dairy.

You can also use a dairy-free cheese alternative to maintain the creaminess.

Pasta Alternatives

Opt for whole grain pasta for added fiber.

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta or even zucchini noodles.

Additional Vegetables

Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes to enhance the dish.

These will add both color and nutritional value.

Healthier Fats

Replace butter with olive oil for a healthier fat option.

You can also use avocado oil for its neutral flavor and high smoke point.

How to Store Leftover Applebee’s Cajun Chicken Pasta

Once you’ve made this delicious pasta dish, storing leftovers properly is key to enjoying it again!

Refrigeration

You can safely keep your leftover Cajun Chicken Pasta in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Place the pasta in an airtight container to maintain its flavors.

Make sure to cool the pasta to room temperature before refrigerating to prevent condensation.

Freezing

If you want to store your pasta for a longer period, freezing is the way to go.

Use a freezer-safe container to keep the pasta fresh in the freezer for up to two months.

Dividing the pasta into portion-sized containers can make defrosting easier later.

Labeling

Always label your containers with the date you stored them.

This will help you keep track of how long your leftovers have been stored.

Don’t forget to include a note on whether they are refrigerated or frozen.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken

Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry and tough.

To avoid this, monitor the cooking time carefully.

Aim to cook the chicken until it is golden brown and no longer pink inside.

Using Too Much Cajun Seasoning

Using an excessive amount of Cajun seasoning can make the dish overwhelmingly spicy.

Add the seasoning gradually and taste as you go.

Start with a small amount and adjust according to your preference.

Not Letting the Sauce Thicken

Rushing the sauce can result in a watery consistency.

Let the sauce simmer until it reaches your desired thickness.

Be patient and give it time to develop its rich, creamy texture.