Save to Pinterest Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Roasted Corn offers a bold twist on the classic Alfredo. Tender Cajun-spiced chicken, roasted sweet corn, and a rich creamy sauce come together over penne pasta. Crunchy crushed tortilla chips finish the dish, adding extra texture and flavor.
The first time I made this dish, I was surprised at how the Cajun spices and creamy Alfredo sauce balanced each other so well. It quickly became a favorite for family dinners when we wanted something bold yet comforting.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Seasoning: 2 boneless chicken breasts, 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, 1 tbsp olive oil, salt and pepper to taste
- Pasta & Sauce: 300 g (10 oz) penne pasta, 2 tbsp butter, 3 cloves garlic (minced), 200 ml (3/4 cup) heavy cream, 100 g (1 cup) grated Parmesan cheese, 100 ml (1/3 cup) milk, salt and pepper to taste
- Roasted Corn: 1 large ear of corn or 1 cup frozen corn, 1 tsp olive oil
- Toppings: handful of crushed tortilla chips, fresh parsley (chopped, optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
- Boil penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken:
- Rub chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sear in olive oil over medium heat until cooked through (about 6&7 minutes per side). Let rest, then slice.
- Roast the corn:
- Grill or pan-roast corn with olive oil until lightly charred. If using frozen corn, sauté until golden and smoky.
- Make the Alfredo sauce:
- In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute. Add cream and milk, simmer 3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan, season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the dish:
- Toss cooked pasta with the Alfredo sauce. Add sliced Cajun chicken and roasted corn. Top with crushed tortilla chips and parsley.
Save to Pinterest This dish always sparks happy conversation at our table, especially when everyone discovers the crunch of tortilla chips in their pasta. It is comfort food with a fun, flavorful spin our kids love making together.
Required Tools
Skillet or grill pan, pot for pasta, saucepan, cutting board and knife
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (cream, cheese), gluten (pasta), corn. Optional: tortilla chips may contain gluten (check label).
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: approx. 610, Total Fat: 28 g, Carbohydrates: 52 g, Protein: 38 g
Save to Pinterest Finish your plate with extra parsley or squeeze of lime for brightness. The crispy tortilla chips make every bite a special treat.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of chicken works best for this dish?
Boneless chicken breasts are ideal for even cooking and slicing, but thighs could add extra juiciness and flavor.
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Penne is recommended for its texture and ability to hold sauce. Rigatoni or fusilli are great alternatives for hearty results.
- → How do I achieve smoky corn flavor?
Grill, pan-roast, or sauté corn until golden and lightly charred. This brings out natural sweetness and smoky notes.
- → Is there a way to make this dish milder?
Substitute Cajun seasoning with smoked paprika or a blend of sweet and mild spices for less heat but plenty of flavor.
- → How can I make this gluten-free?
Use gluten-free penne and ensure tortilla chips are certified gluten-free. Double-check product labels for safety.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
A crisp salad or grilled bread complements the rich flavors and adds freshness to your meal.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini add color, nutrients, and extra depth to the finished dish.