Pastalaya Recipe

[Kurt]

It's Pasta Day!

Ingredients:​

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 lb (450g) smoked sausage (such as andouille), sliced into rounds
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust to spice preference)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 lb (450g) pasta (penne or rigatoni work well)
• Chopped green onions, for garnish
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions:​

1. Cook the Chicken and Sausage:
   • In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat.
   • Add the chicken pieces and sausage rounds. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, and the sausage is lightly browned. Remove from the pan and set aside.
2. Saute the Vegetables:
   • In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add Seasonings and Tomatoes:
   • Stir in the Cajun seasoning, paprika, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
   • Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) to the pan. Stir well to combine with the vegetables and spices.
4. Cook the Pasta:
   • Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
   • Add the pasta to the pan, stirring to combine. Reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pan.
   • Simmer for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Combine Everything:
   • Return the cooked chicken and sausage to the pan, stirring to combine with the pasta and vegetables.
   • Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through and well combined.
6. Serve:
   • Remove from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
   • Garnish with chopped green onions and parsley.
   • Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Pastalaya!

Pastalaya is a hearty dish that combines the best of Cajun flavors with the comfort of pasta, making it a perfect meal for gatherings or family dinners. Adjust the spice level to your preference and enjoy the rich flavors of this Louisiana-inspired dish!

 

[Kento Nanami]

That Pastalaya recipe sounds bomb! Thanks for sharing, I'm definitely trying it out for Pasta Day!