Rattlesnake Pasta is one of those rare gems that manages to surprise and delight anyone lucky enough to dig into a bowl. Creamy sauce infused with just the right touch of spice hugs tender pasta, while juicy strips of chicken and colorful peppers make each forkful irresistible. This dish is a perfect balance of comfort food and bold Southwestern flair, making it a staple in my weeknight dinner routine and a guaranteed conversation starter at casual get-togethers. If you’re ready for a flavor adventure, Rattlesnake Pasta has all the excitement you crave!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Rattlesnake Pasta lies in its approachable ingredient list—nothing fancy, just pantry and fridge staples that each play a leading role in taste, texture, and gorgeous color. Let’s go over why every item matters:

Penne Pasta: Perfectly shaped to catch all that creamy, spicy sauce in every bite.
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Sliced thinly, these soak up all the flavors while staying juicy and tender.
Red and Green Bell Peppers: Bring sweetness, crunch, and a pop of color to the dish.
Jalapeño Peppers: Add the signature gentle heat that gives Rattlesnake Pasta its subtle kick.
Garlic: Freshly minced for aromatic depth that makes the sauce truly mouthwatering.
Heavy Cream: The secret behind the luscious, restaurant-style cream sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty richness and helps the sauce cling beautifully to the pasta.
Butter: For sautéing chicken and veggies, and for extra silkiness in the sauce.
Olive Oil: Balances butter and keeps ingredients from sticking during the sauté.
Blackened or Cajun Seasoning: This robust spice mix is what elevates ordinary chicken to superstar status.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning every component.
Fresh Parsley: For a burst of freshness and vibrant finishing touch.

How to Make Rattlesnake Pasta

Step 1: Prep the Chicken and Veggies

Start by slicing your chicken breasts into thin, even strips for quick, uniform cooking. Next, julienne your bell peppers (both red and green) and finely chop the jalapeño and garlic. Having everything prepped ahead of time helps the cooking process feel like a breeze—plus, your kitchen will already be brimming with incredible aromas before you even fire up the stove!

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then toss in the penne. Cook until al dente (usually a minute or two less than the package recommends), then drain and set aside. Don’t forget to reserve a splash of the starchy cooking water—this is your secret weapon for loosening up the sauce later if things get too thick.

Step 3: Sauté the Chicken

Heat a mix of butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sprinkle the chicken slices with Cajun or blackened seasoning, then add them to the hot pan. Cook until the chicken is lightly golden and cooked through, about 4-5 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it covered so it stays juicy.

Step 4: Sauté the Peppers and Jalapeños

In the same skillet (don’t wipe it clean!), toss in your bell peppers and jalapeños with an extra dab of butter if needed. Sauté until the peppers soften slightly yet still have a bit of crunch—around 3 minutes. Stir in the garlic right at the end for that hit of garlicky goodness without the risk of burning.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat to medium and pour the heavy cream into the skillet, scraping up any browned bits for extra flavor. Let this simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Watch as the sauce thickens to a dreamy, glossy consistency. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to keep it velvety.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add your cooked penne and the sautéed chicken back to the skillet. Toss well, coating every piece of pasta and chicken in the luscious, pepper-speckled sauce. Season with salt and pepper, then give everything a final gentle toss. The finished Rattlesnake Pasta should be irresistibly creamy and speckled with colorful veggies in every bite.

How to Serve Rattlesnake Pasta

Garnishes

A good Rattlesnake Pasta truly shines with a handful of fresh chopped parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan cheese just before serving. If you like bolder flavors, a squeeze of lime or a few thinly sliced jalapeños on top add brightness and visual pop that’ll make your plate Instagram-worthy.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up every drop of sauce or a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the creamy richness. Steamed or roasted vegetables also make a colorful and nutritious addition to your table.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re entertaining, serve Rattlesnake Pasta in individual pasta bowls with a wedge of lime on each side, or try it family-style on a big platter for a rustic, inviting look. For a fun twist, top each serving with grilled shrimp or swap out the chicken for sliced Andouille sausage to keep things exciting.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Rattlesnake Pasta keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen after a night in the fridge, making your lunch the next day something to look forward to! Just be sure it’s completely cooled before storing to keep it fresh.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, this pasta freezes well for up to two months. Cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. For best results, freeze in individual portions—the sauce may separate slightly after thawing but can be revived with a gentle stir and a splash of cream.

Reheating

To reheat, transfer your pasta to a skillet over low heat and add a little extra cream or milk to restore its creamy texture. Stir occasionally until heated through. Microwaving works for convenience, but I always prefer the stovetop for the best flavor and consistency.

FAQs

Can I make Rattlesnake Pasta less spicy?

Absolutely! Simply reduce the amount of jalapeños or use a milder pepper, and opt for a mild Cajun or blackened seasoning. You can always serve extra hot sauce on the side for anyone craving more heat.

What type of pasta works best for this dish?

While penne is the classic choice because it scoops up the sauce so well, other tube-shaped pastas like rigatoni or ziti are delicious substitutes. Even fettuccine or linguine can work for a slightly different texture.

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

You bet! Shred or slice any cooked chicken, season it generously with Cajun spice, and add it to the pan just long enough to warm through and soak up the flavors from the sauce.

Is there a way to make Rattlesnake Pasta vegetarian?

Definitely! Skip the chicken and add hearty vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini, or toss in some crispy tofu for plant-based protein. The sauce and peppers do all the heavy lifting for flavor.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Just swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free penne or rotini and check that your seasonings and cheese are gluten-free. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free by design.

Final Thoughts

There’s something special about sharing a big, vibrant bowl of Rattlesnake Pasta—it’s a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. I hope you give it a try, experiment with your own twists, and make it a regular part of your dinner rotation. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds!

Rattlesnake Pasta Recipe