Name: Rattlesnake Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb penne pasta; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 1⁄2 tsp Cajun seasoning; 2 tbsp olive oil, divided; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1⁄2 red onion, sliced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2-3 jalapeño peppers, sliced (seeds removed for less heat); 4 tbsp butter; 1⁄4 cup all-purpose flour; 2 cups milk or half-and-half; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1⁄2 tsp salt; 1⁄4 tsp black pepper; 1⁄4 cup chopped fresh parsley

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Introduction

Rattlesnake Pasta is a creamy, spicy dish that combines tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a flavorful Cajun kick. This hearty meal is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat with their comfort food. Ready in under an hour, it makes a satisfying weeknight dinner.

A white plate holds a creamy penne pasta dish with three main layers: the bottom layer is pale yellow cooked penne pasta, soft and slightly shiny; the middle layer includes grilled pieces of light brown chicken with a bit of char and slices of red bell pepper and light green vegetables; the top layer is a smooth white creamy sauce spread evenly over the pasta and chicken, sprinkled with chopped green parsley and black pepper flakes. A silver fork rests on the right side of the plate, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb penne pasta
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 1⁄2 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1⁄2 red onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2-3 jalapeño peppers, sliced (remove seeds for less heat)
4 tbsp butter
1⁄4 cup all-purpose flour
2 cups milk or half-and-half
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1⁄2 tsp salt
1⁄4 tsp black pepper
1⁄4 cup chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken pieces with the Cajun seasoning. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the chicken to a plate.
Step 3: Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the skillet. Add the bell peppers, onion, garlic, and jalapeños. Sauté until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Melt the butter in the same skillet over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux.
Step 5: Gradually whisk in the milk until the sauce is smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until it thickens, about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper until the cheese has melted and the sauce is creamy.
Step 7: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and sautéed vegetables back to the skillet. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the sauce.
Step 8: Serve the rattlesnake pasta hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. Enjoy the creamy, spicy flavors!

Tips & Variations

For a milder dish, remove all jalapeño seeds or reduce the number of peppers used.
Substitute half-and-half for milk for an extra rich and creamy sauce.
Add smoked sausage slices or shrimp for a different protein twist.
Use gluten-free pasta and flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk if the sauce has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving at high power to preserve the creamy texture.

How to Serve

A close-up of a white bowl filled with creamy pasta made of penne noodles coated in a thick, smooth white sauce. Mixed inside the pasta are thin strips of red bell pepper and pieces of light beige chicken, all topped with small green herb leaves scattered on top. The dish looks rich and fresh against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the pasta, chicken, and vegetables ahead and store them separately. Combine with the sauce just before serving to keep the dish fresh and creamy.

What can I use if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make a simple homemade blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, dried oregano, and thyme to mimic Cajun flavors.