This is by no means an original idea: Cajun Chicken Cutlets over Pasta. Allegedly, Chili’s serves something like this, according to the land of Pinterest. But I haven’t been to a Chili’s since 1999, so don’t quote me. I’m sure it has a way catchier name on the Chili’s menu.
This was really really good. Eveything works perfectly together. I love the final addition of fresh tomatoes and parsley right before serving. Keeps it light.
I did season my tomatoes lightly with a little salt and pepper this time around since tomatoes aren’t exactly in season at the moment:
This is great to make on a weeknight. It comes together quite quickly. I serve with a salad.
Cajun Chicken Cutlets over Pasta
Course: MainCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy4-6
servings20
minutes30
minutesIngredients
2 lbs. thin chicken cutlets
4 Tbsp. cajun seasoning, divided
4 Tbsp. olive oil, divided
1 Tbsp. butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 cup 1/2 and 1/2
Pasta water
1/2 lb. to 3/4 lb. fusilli, rigatoni or your favorite short-cut pasta
1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
4 plum tomatoes, chopped
Parmiggiano cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a rectangle glass dish, whisk together 3 Tbsp. cajun seasoning and 3 Tbsp. olive oil. Add chicken cutlets. Massage cajun oil all over chicken cutlets. Set aside for at least 30 minutes.
- In a grill pan over medium heat, cook chicken cutlets in batches, about 3 minutes each side. Set aside and keep covered.
- In a large pot of salted water, cook pasta as instructed on the package.
- As the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 Tbsp. olive oil and 1 Tbsp. butter. Add garlic and cajun seasoning. Cook for 3-4 minutes. Add a couple of ladles of pasta water, 1/2 and /1/2, lemon zest and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle bubble. Once pasta is cooked, add it directly to the saucepan. Heat through for another minute. Add more 1/2 and 1/2 or pasta water if you want it saucier. Turn off heat and toss with a handful of cheese.
- To serve: Place a spoonful or two of pasta on a plate. Top with one or two pieces of chicken and then top with fresh tomatoes and parsley. Add more cheese if desired.
