Description
Rattlesnake Pasta is a bold, creamy pasta dish packed with Cajun-seasoned chicken, sautéed peppers, jalapeños, and a Parmesan-rich cream sauce—an irresistible mix of comfort food and Southwestern flair.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin
- 1 red bell pepper, julienned
- 1 green bell pepper, julienned
- 1–2 jalapeño peppers, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter (divided)
- 1 tbsp Cajun or blackened seasoning
- 1 1/4 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Heat 1 tbsp butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning and sauté until golden and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter, bell peppers, and jalapeños. Sauté for 3 minutes until just softened. Stir in garlic and cook 1 more minute.
- Lower heat to medium. Add cream and simmer 2–3 minutes. Stir in Parmesan until smooth and creamy. Add pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
- Add pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- Top with extra Parmesan, parsley, or thin jalapeño slices for added flair.
- Pair with garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables for a full meal.
- Serve family-style on a platter or in bowls with lime wedges for extra brightness.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream.
- Freeze cooled portions for up to 2 months; stir well when reheating to restore creaminess.
- Use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken as a shortcut—season and warm through in the sauce.
- For a vegetarian version, swap chicken for mushrooms or zucchini, or add crispy tofu.
- Use gluten-free pasta and seasoning for a gluten-free adaptation.
- Reduce jalapeños or use mild Cajun seasoning for less heat.
- Try rigatoni, ziti, or fettuccine for pasta variety.
