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Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta with a Spicy Kick

Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta with a Spicy Kick for Quick Dinners

Enjoy a delightful Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta with a Spicy Kick, combining creamy indulgence with a zesty Cajun flavor for a quick dinner.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: PASTA
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz penne pasta or substitute with rigatoni or rotini
For the Chicken
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts can replace with shrimp, sausage, or plant-based options
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning adjust based on heat preference
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
For the Vegetables
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika reduce or omit for milder flavor
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion
  • 1 medium red bell pepper or substitute with other bell peppers
  • 2 large fresh jalapeños adjust to taste or use milder peppers
  • 3 cloves garlic fresh preferred
For the Sauce
  • 2 cups chicken broth or substitute with vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream can reduce for lighter choice
  • 4 oz cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese fresh is best
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice or lime juice for twist
For Garnish
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or chives other herbs work too
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Pot

Method
 

How to Make Creamy Rattlesnake Pasta
  1. Season your boneless skinless chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, kosher salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Let it sit for a few minutes.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium heat with olive oil and butter. Sear the seasoned chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the yellow onion and red bell pepper. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until tender.
  4. Stir in the chopped fresh jalapeños and minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
  5. Sprinkle in some Cajun seasoning and crushed red pepper. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Reduce heat to low and gradually mix in heavy cream and cream cheese, stirring until smooth.
  7. Slowly stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese and lemon juice, adjusting seasoning to preference.
  8. In a separate pot, boil penne pasta according to directions until al dente. Reserve a bit of pasta water before draining.
  9. Add your cooked chicken back to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together, using reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
  10. Mix in freshly chopped parsley or chives. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan, sliced jalapeños, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Optional: Serve with garlic bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal.

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