Description
Best Rattlesnake Pasta is a creamy, spicy Cajun-inspired dish featuring tender chicken, bell peppers, jalapeños, and parmesan cheese tossed with penne pasta. This flavorful recipe comes together in 30 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner with a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 1 pound penne pasta
Chicken and Vegetables
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into 1-inch cubes)
- 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
- 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
- 3 jalapeños (sliced, seeds included for spiciness or removed for less heat)
- 1 onion (finely minced)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic (or 4 cloves fresh, finely chopped)
Sauce
- 1 Tablespoon olive oil
- 4 Tablespoons butter
- 1/3 cup flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 1/2 cups parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare: Begin by cutting the chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions, drain and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken cubes and cook until done, stirring occasionally. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a bowl and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add finely minced onions and garlic, cooking and stirring occasionally for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir well to combine; the mixture will appear clumpy at first.
- Add Milk Gradually: Slowly add 1 cup of the whole milk, stirring continuously. Repeat this process three more times until all 4 cups of milk are incorporated and the sauce is smooth except for the onion pieces.
- Simmer Sauce: Stir in the Cajun seasoning and optional red chili pepper flakes. Add chopped green and red bell peppers and sliced jalapeños. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes until the sauce starts to thicken.
- Finish Dish: Stir in the parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet, stirring everything together to coat evenly with the sauce.
- Serve: Plate the pasta hot and enjoy your delicious, spicy Rattlesnake Pasta!
Notes
- You can remove the seeds from jalapeños to reduce the heat if desired.
- Cajun seasoning adds the signature flavor and spiciness; adjust the amount to suit your taste.
- Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor.
- Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
