Sarah BrownWhen I first tried the Louisiana Chicken Pasta at The Cheesecake Factory, I had to know what would make a perfect match with this rich, creamy dish. After a little experimentation, I found some delightful companions.
A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. A light white wine, like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish’s flavors without overpowering it. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a splash of lemon lends a refreshing contrast.
As for bread? A crusty baguette or garlic bread allows for that delightful napkin-wiping experience. Trust me; you want to savor every drop of that Cajun cream sauce.
There’s a sense of adventure in every bite of Louisiana Chicken Pasta. The Cheesecake Factory is known for whipping up dishes that tantalize the taste buds.
This pasta, with its creamy sauce and Cajun flair, transports you straight to a cozy Louisiana kitchen. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special, from its flavors to its preparation. I promise you’re going to want to prepare it time and again!
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What is Louisiana Chicken Pasta at Cheesecake Factory?
Louisiana Chicken Pasta is a beloved dish found on The Cheesecake Factory’s extensive menu. This dish features tender chicken pieces coated in a crispy Parmesan crust, served atop perfectly cooked bowtie pasta.
But that’s just the beginning! The pasta is tossed in a creamy Cajun sauce filled with a lovely blend of spices that pack a punch. Add in some fresh veggies and you have a complete meal that feels extravagant yet comforting.
How Does It Taste?
The first forkful is an explosion of flavors. The Cajun cream sauce is creamy and smooth with just the right heat. You might even notice hints of garlic and a delightful umami flavor from the Parmesan cheese.
The crispy chicken adds texture, while the fresh veggies provide a needed crunch. The whole dish is a symphony of creamy, spicy, and savory that keeps you craving more.
Why You’ll Love This?
If you enjoy flavor-packed dishes, this one is a must-try. It caters to various taste preferences—whether you like it hot, mild, crunchy, or creamy, there’s something in this dish that appeals to you.
Moreover, making it at home saves a trip to a restaurant. You can whip it up in under an hour! Plus, it’s versatile enough for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Ingredients
Let’s gather our ingredients before we get cooking:
CAJUN CREAM SAUCE
– 2 cups heavy whipping cream
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch powder
– 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes
– 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
– 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
CRISPY PARMESAN CHICKEN:
4 chicken breasts, pounded thin
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 tablespoons canola oil
PASTA
1 lb bowtie pasta
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
1/2 yellow bell pepper, julienned
1/2 red bell pepper, julienned
1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon minced shallots
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Directions
Let’s get started with this flavorful dish!
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil a large pot of salted water. Add in your bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions—typically around 8 to 10 minutes. Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; it’ll help adjust the sauce later!
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, let’s prepare the chicken. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In three separate bowls, set up your dredging station: place flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and mix panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese in the last.
Coat each chicken breast in flour, dip in eggs, and then cover in the breadcrumb mixture.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat 4 tablespoons of canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the coated chicken breasts, cooking them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
Remove them from the skillet and let them rest on a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 4: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low. Add minced shallots and sauté for about a minute. Then, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Gradually whisk in the cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Add cayenne pepper, Creole seasoning, sea salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
Toss in the sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, and red onion into the sauce. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies soften. Stir in the reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Once the sauce is ready, add in the drained pasta and toss well to coat every piece. Finally, slice up the crispy chicken and place it on top of your creamy pasta. Sprinkle fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Tips on Making Louisiana Chicken Pasta
Here are some helpful tips for making your pasta dish even better:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and high-quality chicken can elevate your dish.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like it spicy, don’t hesitate to add more chili flakes.
- Leftover Chicken?: Rotisserie chicken works in a pinch. Just add it to the sauce at the end.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Make it Ahead: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it a great meal prep option. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutrition Information
Louisiana chicken pasta cheesecake factory recipe nutrition facts
How Do You Store Louisiana Chicken Pasta?
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool to room temperature. Transfer it into an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to three days.
When reheating, add a splash of water or cream to loosen up the sauce.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Louisiana Chicken Pasta?
Getting creative with the dish can be fun! Here are five alternatives you can consider:
- Chicken Breasts: Turkey breasts can also work well. They provide a leaner option without sacrificing taste.
- Pasta Variety: Instead of bowtie pasta, try using penne or rotini. Each offers its unique texture and can hold the sauce nicely.
- Cream Alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter option, use Greek yogurt or a plant-based cream to reduce calories.
- Vegetable Swaps: For added nutrition, put in spinach or kale. They cook down nicely and won’t change the dish’s essence.
- Parmesan Cheese: If you’re avoiding dairy, use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the creaminess.
Louisiana chicken pasta cheesecake factory recipe
Equipment
- Large pot
Ingredients
CAJUN CREAM SAUCE
- – 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- – 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- – 1 tablespoon cornstarch powder
- – 1 teaspoon crushed red chili flakes
- – 1 teaspoon Creole seasoning
- – 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- – 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- – 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
CRISPY PARMESAN CHICKEN:
- 4 chicken breasts pounded thin
- 2 large eggs lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 tablespoons canola oil
PASTA
- 1 lb bowtie pasta
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms sliced
- 1/2 yellow bell pepper julienned
- 1/2 red bell pepper julienned
- 1/2 red onion thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon minced shallots
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add in your bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions—typically around 8 to 10 minutes. Remember to reserve a cup of pasta water before draining; it’ll help adjust the sauce later!
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- While the pasta is cooking, let’s prepare the chicken. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In three separate bowls, set up your dredging station: place flour in one, beaten eggs in another, and mix panko breadcrumbs with Parmesan cheese in the last.
- Coat each chicken breast in flour, dip in eggs, and then cover in the breadcrumb mixture.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 4 tablespoons of canola oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the coated chicken breasts, cooking them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- Remove them from the skillet and let them rest on a plate lined with paper towels.
Step 4: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
- In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low. Add minced shallots and sauté for about a minute. Then, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Gradually whisk in the cornstarch to thicken the sauce. Add cayenne pepper, Creole seasoning, sea salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Add the Vegetables
- Toss in the sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, and red onion into the sauce. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the veggies soften. Stir in the reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
Step 6: Combine Everything
- Once the sauce is ready, add in the drained pasta and toss well to coat every piece. Finally, slice up the crispy chicken and place it on top of your creamy pasta. Sprinkle fresh parsley for a pop of color.
Notes
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and high-quality chicken can elevate your dish.
- Adjust the Spice: If you like it spicy, don’t hesitate to add more chili flakes.
- Leftover Chicken?: Rotisserie chicken works in a pinch. Just add it to the sauce at the end.
- Dairy-Free Option: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
- Make it Ahead: This dish stores well in the fridge, making it a great meal prep option. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I freeze Louisiana Chicken Pasta?
Absolutely! To freeze, ensure the pasta is cooled. Store it in freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
2. Can I make Louisiana Chicken Pasta vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add in more vegetables or your favorite protein alternative like tofu or chickpeas for substance.
3. How spicy is this dish?
The spice level depends on how much Cajun seasoning and chili flakes you add. It’s customizable! For milder flavors, reduce these ingredients.
4. What can I serve with Louisiana Chicken Pasta?
Traditional options include garlic bread or a simple green salad. They balance the dish’s richness nicely.
5. How do I know when my chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Using a meat thermometer takes the guesswork out.
6. Is this dish good for meal prep?
Yes! It stores well and still tastes delicious after reheating, making it a great option for weekly meals.
Conclusion
There you have it! Louisiana Chicken Pasta brings a taste of spice and creaminess right to your home kitchen. With its balanced flavors and elements, it could easily become a standout dish for family dinners or gatherings.
Armed with the right ingredients and some easy steps, you can recreate this restaurant favorite.
So, whether you’re settling down for a cozy night in or planning a get-together, have this recipe handy. It’s bound to impress and create lasting memories at your table!
