Pastalaya is a delightful fusion of the flavors found in traditional jambalaya, but with pasta instead of rice. It’s a comforting one-pot meal that’s packed with smoky, spicy, and savory flavors, making it a perfect dish for any gathering. The combination of chicken, sausage, and a medley of vegetables with pasta makes this recipe not only flavorful but also hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or a casual get-together, Pastalaya is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken thighs (diced)
- 1/2 lb smoked sausage (sliced)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 2 cups penne pasta (or any other short pasta)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Green onions (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken thighs and sliced smoked sausage. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and the sausage is slightly crisp. This will help release the flavors from the sausage, giving the dish its smoky essence.
Step 2:
Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pot. The combination of these veggies, often referred to as the “holy trinity” of Cajun cuisine, forms the flavorful base of the dish.
Step 3:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (including the juices). Stir to combine. Next, sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and thyme. Mix everything well, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the dish. You can adjust the Cajun seasoning according to your spice preference. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4:
Add the penne pasta to the pot, stirring to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your desired texture. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If needed, add a splash more chicken broth to adjust the consistency.
Step 5:
Once the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the flavorful liquid, turn off the heat. Taste the dish and add salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve the Pastalaya hot, straight from the pot, and enjoy the blend of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors.
COOKING Note:
- Feel free to adjust the level of spice by adding more or less Cajun seasoning. If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- This recipe is versatile! You can swap out the chicken thighs for shrimp, beef, or even keep it vegetarian by adding extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- For a richer flavor, try using a smoked paprika blend or adding a bit of liquid smoke.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve Pastalaya with a side of garlic bread or cornbread to soak up all the delicious juices.
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette makes a perfect, refreshing complement to this hearty dish.
- For added flavor, sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving.
- Pair with a chilled glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing meal experience.
Tips:
- Make-Ahead Tip: You can prepare the chicken and sausage mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, just reheat and add the remaining ingredients.
- Leftovers: Pastalaya tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the creamy consistency.
- Variations: Try experimenting with different proteins like shrimp, crawfish, or a mix of seafood for a seafood Pastalaya. You can also mix in other veggies like corn, peas, or diced tomatoes with chilies for added texture and flavor.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 800mg
FAQs:
Q: Can I use any other type of pasta for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While penne is recommended, you can use any short pasta like rotini, fusilli, or bow ties. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Can I make this dish spicier?
A: Yes, you can easily make it spicier by adding extra Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, or a splash of hot sauce. Adjust the spice level to your preference.
Q: What other proteins can I use instead of chicken?
A: This recipe is flexible; you can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Smoked sausage is a key ingredient for that authentic flavor, but feel free to explore other options.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare Pastalaya ahead of time. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave when ready to serve. Add a little broth if it seems dry.
Conclusion:
Pastalaya is a flavorful, satisfying, and easy-to-make dish that brings the essence of Cajun cuisine into your kitchen. With just one pot, you get a balanced meal full of proteins, vegetables, and carbs, perfect for any occasion. The smoky, savory, and slightly spicy flavors make it an irresistible choice, and it’s versatile enough to adapt to your preferences. Whether you’re a fan of traditional jambalaya or just love pasta, this Pastalaya recipe is bound to become a favorite. Give it a try, and enjoy the delicious taste of the South in every bite!
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Authentic Cajun Pastalaya Recipe – One Pot Chicken & Sausage Pasta
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken thighs (diced)
- 1/2 lb smoked sausage (sliced)
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
- 2 celery stalks (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 2 cups penne pasta (or any other short pasta)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp thyme
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
Preparation:
Step 1:
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken thighs and sliced smoked sausage. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and the sausage is slightly crisp. This will help release the flavors from the sausage, giving the dish its smoky essence.
Step 2:
Add the chopped onion, green bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the pot. The combination of these veggies, often referred to as the “holy trinity” of Cajun cuisine, forms the flavorful base of the dish.
Step 3:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (including the juices). Stir to combine. Next, sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and thyme. Mix everything well, ensuring the seasoning is evenly distributed throughout the dish. You can adjust the Cajun seasoning according to your spice preference. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 4:
Add the penne pasta to the pot, stirring to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on medium-low heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your desired texture. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If needed, add a splash more chicken broth to adjust the consistency.
Step 5:
Once the pasta is tender and has absorbed most of the flavorful liquid, turn off the heat. Taste the dish and add salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve the Pastalaya hot, straight from the pot, and enjoy the blend of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors.
Notes
COOKING Note:
- Feel free to adjust the level of spice by adding more or less Cajun seasoning. If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce.
- This recipe is versatile! You can swap out the chicken thighs for shrimp, beef, or even keep it vegetarian by adding extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
- For a richer flavor, try using a smoked paprika blend or adding a bit of liquid smoke.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 550 kcal
- Sodium: 800mg
- Protein: 25g