Cajun Pastalaya is a flavorful twist on the traditional jambalaya, swapping rice for pasta but keeping all the bold spices and hearty ingredients that make this dish a Cajun favorite. Packed with smoky sausage, tender chicken, and a blend of Cajun seasonings, this one-pot wonder is perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or whenever you’re craving some Southern comfort. The pasta soaks up the rich flavors of the sausage and spices, creating a deliciously satisfying dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb andouille sausage, sliced
- 1 lb chicken thighs, cubed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 12 oz penne or bow-tie pasta
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Sear the sausage and chicken: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced andouille sausage and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add the cubed chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside with the sausage.
- Cook the vegetables: In the same pot, add the onion, bell pepper, celery, and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5-6 minutes.
- Add the liquids and seasonings: Stir in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked pasta to the pot, stirring to combine. Cover and cook over medium heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Combine and finish: Return the sausage and chicken to the pot, stirring to combine. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes. Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Enjoy your Cajun Pastalaya, a rich and spicy dish that brings the flavors of the bayou right to your kitchen!
