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Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta

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Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta is a fiery, creamy dish that combines Cajun-seasoned chicken, spicy jalapeños, and a rich cheesy sauce. This easy-to-make pasta is perfect for spice lovers who want a bold, flavorful meal. Customizable and quick, it’s a great addition to your weeknight dinner rotation!

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons chopped pickled jalapeños, plus extra slices for serving
  • 1 large clove garlic, finely chopped
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 12 ounces dried penne pasta
  • 4 cups unsalted chicken stock
  • 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, drain, and set aside.
  • Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning and paprika. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown. Remove and slice.
  • In the same skillet, sauté garlic and jalapeños until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream and chicken stock. Stir in parmesan and simmer until the sauce thickens.
  • Toss the pasta into the skillet, adding reserved pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency. Add the chicken back in, season to taste, and garnish with parsley.

Notes

  • Adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of jalapeños or Cajun seasoning.
  • For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half.
  • You can use shrimp, sausage, or even a veggie mix like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for variations.