Easy Cajun Pastalaya Recipe You’ll Love
This cozy pastalaya recipe brings together tender chicken, smoky andouille-style sausage, the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, and pasta—all simmered together in one pot. It’s comforting, rich, and packed with Louisiana-inspired flavor, perfect for weeknights, gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something saucy and satisfying.
Equipment
- Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
- Cutting board & knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Airtight containers (for storing leftovers)
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 oz turkey or beef andouille sausage sliced
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs, cubed
- 1 cup yellow onion diced
- 1 cup green bell pepper diced
- 1 cup celery diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup crushed tomatoes
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 1 –2 teaspoons hot sauce optional
- ¼ cup green onions sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
Optional Add-Ins:
- ½ lb shrimp stir in at the end
- Red pepper flakes for extra spice
- Fire-roasted tomatoes for deeper flavor
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the sausage slices for 2–3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Add chicken to the same pan. Sprinkle with half the Cajun seasoning. Cook until seared on both sides (about 5–6 minutes total). Set aside with sausage.
- Lower heat to medium. Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic, remaining Cajun seasoning, thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Scrape the bottom of the pot to lift up the flavorful bits.
- Add pasta, chicken, and sausage back to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 12–14 minutes, stirring once halfway through.
- Uncover and check pasta doneness. Add hot sauce, adjust seasoning, and stir well.
- Garnish with green onions and parsley. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
Use turkey or beef andouille sausage to keep it pork-free without losing that signature smoky bite. Adjust spice levels to suit your family’s taste!