Dinner

Smoked Chicken Cajun Pasta

  • Prep 10 mins
  • Total 1h 30 mins
  • Medium
  • Serves 6

This smoked chicken Cajun pasta is comfort food in a bowl! Juicy smoked Cajun chicken mixed into a creamy and delicious pasta. Serve this with a side salad for a full and balanced meal.

Allergies

  • Contains Milk/Dairy
  • Contains Wheat

Tip: Allergy Advice

This dish contains the following allergens: Milk/Dairy, Wheat

Cooking mode

Step-by-step instruction without your screen going to sleep

  • 1 whole chicken (4-6 pounds)
  • 1/2 - 1 cup + 1 tablespoon + 1-2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided
  • kosher salt, as desired
  • ground black pepper, as desired
  • 3 tablespoons canola oil
  • 1 medium yellow onion, peeled, chopped
  • 2 bell peppers, seeds removed, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
  • ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 pound cooked penne pasta, cooked al dente
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil

Utensils

  • Large Pot
  • Step 1

    Liberally season the chicken on all sides with ½ to 1 cup Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

  • Step 2

    To install the grill grate, position it flat on top of the heating element and gently press down until it sits into place. Place chicken onto the grill grate and close the hood.

  • Step 3

    While holding the smoke box lid open, use the pellet scoop to pour pellets into the smoke box until filled to the top. Then close the smoke box lid.

  • Step 4

    Turn dial to SMOKER, set temperature to 375°F, set time to 1 hour. Select START/STOP to begin cooking (preheating is not needed).

  • Step 5

    Cooking is complete when the internal temperature of the chicken should read 165°F in several places. Transfer chicken to a plate or cutting board and allow to rest for 10 to 20 minutes. Cut about 1 pound of white or dark meat and reserve the rest for another use.

  • Step 6

    Place a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the oil, onion, bell pepper, and 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning. Cook until peppers are soft, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and 1 pound smoked chicken and cook for 1 minute.

  • Step 7

    Add the red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper and stir to combine. Then add the heavy cream and cream cheese and whisk until smooth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook 5 minutes, until thickened slightly.

  • Step 8

    Stir in the Parmesan. Add the pasta, stir to combine, and cook 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the basil.