Why Make This Recipe
Rattlesnake Pasta is a delicious and spicy dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. With the perfect blend of Cajun seasoning, creamy sauce, and tender chicken, this recipe is not only satisfying but also easy to prepare. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this pasta dish will impress everyone with its vibrant and bold taste. Plus, it offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors that you’ll want to enjoy again and again!
How to Make Rattlesnake Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1 pound penne pasta
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced
- 1/2 cup jalapeños, sliced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Directions:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Season the cubed chicken breasts with the Cajun seasoning. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and cook the chicken until it’s fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the same skillet. Sauté the sliced bell peppers and jalapeños for 4-5 minutes, or until they’re softened. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set them aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent. Whisk in 1/4 cup all-purpose flour and cook for an additional minute. Gradually whisk in 2 cups milk, one cup at a time, until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Simmer the sauce for about 5 minutes, or until it’s thickened to your desired consistency.
- Add the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using) to the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and fully incorporated. Finally, add the cooked pasta, chicken, and sautéed vegetables to the sauce, and gently toss everything together until well combined.
- Transfer the Rattlesnake Pasta to serving bowls and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy the delightful blend of spicy, creamy, and fresh flavors!
How to Serve Rattlesnake Pasta
Serve Rattlesnake Pasta hot, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. You can also add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese on top. This dish pairs well with a side salad or some garlic bread to complete your meal.
How to Store Rattlesnake Pasta
To store Rattlesnake Pasta, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk if needed to keep the sauce creamy.
Tips to Make Rattlesnake Pasta
- Adjust the level of spice according to your taste by adding more or less jalapeños and red pepper flakes.
- For a richer flavor, you can marinate the chicken in Cajun seasoning for a few hours before cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version of Rattlesnake Pasta by replacing chicken with your favorite vegetables or even tofu. Simply sauté a mix of veggies that you love and follow the same steps to complete the dish.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute penne pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, like fettuccine, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta.
2. Is Rattlesnake Pasta spicy?
Yes, the dish does have a kick due to the Cajun seasoning and jalapeños. You can adjust the spice level by using less seasoning or omitting the jalapeños.
3. Can I freeze Rattlesnake Pasta?
It is not recommended to freeze Rattlesnake Pasta as the creamy sauce may change in texture upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the refrigerator for short-term use.
Rattlesnake Pasta
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 1 pound penne pasta Any pasta shape can be used.
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts Cubed for cooking.
- 2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Adjust spice level to taste.
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced For seasoning the sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Enhances flavor.
- 1 cup bell peppers, sliced Can use mixed colors.
- 1/2 cup jalapeños, sliced Adjust amount for less spice.
Sauce
- 2 tablespoon olive oil For cooking the chicken and vegetables.
- 2 tablespoon butter To flavor the sauce.
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour To thicken the sauce.
- 2 cups milk Gradually whisk into the sauce.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese For creamy consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt To taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper To taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes Optional, for additional heat.
Instructions
Preparation
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Season the cubed chicken breasts with the Cajun seasoning.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet. Sauté the sliced bell peppers and jalapeños for 4-5 minutes until softened. Remove and set aside.
Cooking the Sauce
- Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic; sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent.
- Whisk in the flour and cook for an additional minute.
- Gradually whisk in milk, one cup at a time, until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Simmer for about 5 minutes until thickened.
- Stir in Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted.
Combining
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and sautéed vegetables to the sauce. Toss gently until well combined.
- Transfer Rattlesnake Pasta to serving bowls and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro.
