Prepare your tastebuds for a fiery, creamy indulgence! Rattlesnake Pasta is a Southwest-inspired dish that brings together tender strips of chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a luscious Cajun cream sauce tossed with fettuccine or linguine. It’s the kind of meal that dances on the edge of spicy and creamy, making each bite irresistible.

The magic of this pasta lies in its balance. The heat from Cajun seasoning and jalapeños is mellowed by the rich cream sauce, while the grilled chicken adds smoky depth. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests at your next gathering, Rattlesnake Pasta delivers bold flavor with a satisfying, creamy finish.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Rattlesnake Pasta traditionally works best with long noodles like fettuccine or linguine. These wide strands beautifully soak up the creamy Cajun sauce and hold up well to the hearty chicken and peppers. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try it with penne or rigatoni for a slightly different bite, but fettuccine is the classic go-to.

Ingredients for the Rattlesnake Pasta

Chicken breast: Grilled or pan-seared chicken brings protein and a savory bite to the dish.
Fettuccine or linguine: Perfect for twirling and absorbing the spicy cream sauce.
Bell peppers: Red and yellow bell peppers add sweetness, crunch, and color.
Jalapeño: For that signature spicy kick that gives the pasta its “rattlesnake” name.
Cajun seasoning: The backbone of the spice blend, adding heat, smokiness, and depth.
Heavy cream: Creates a silky, indulgent sauce that balances the spice.
Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce, adding saltiness and creaminess.
Garlic: Aromatic and flavorful, it deepens the sauce.
Olive oil or butter: For sautéing the chicken and veggies to perfection.
Parsley: A fresh garnish to brighten the final dish.

How To Make the Rattlesnake Pasta

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a hot skillet with olive oil or butter, sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Let it rest, then slice into strips.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil fettuccine or linguine in salted water until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water before draining to adjust sauce consistency later if needed.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil or butter. Sauté sliced bell peppers, jalapeños, and minced garlic until softened but still vibrant, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce

Reduce heat and pour in heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the pan. Sprinkle in Parmesan and stir until the cheese melts, creating a smooth, creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with extra Cajun spice or salt to taste.

Step 5: Toss Everything Together

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add chicken strips back in and toss again until well combined. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in some reserved pasta water.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Plate the pasta, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and top with extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy that spicy, creamy goodness!

Serving and Storing Your Rattlesnake Pasta

Rattlesnake Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, straight from the skillet, when the sauce is at its creamiest and the flavors are most vibrant. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Rattlesnake Pasta?

It’s moderately spicy, thanks to the jalapeños and Cajun seasoning. You can adjust the heat by using fewer jalapeños or a milder Cajun blend.

Can I use shrimp instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shrimp makes a fantastic alternative—just sauté them quickly until pink and toss them in at the end.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and check that your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

How can I make it less rich?

Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Rattlesnake Pasta, you’ll probably enjoy these other delicious dishes from the Kitchen By Kate collection:

Easy Bruschetta Chicken Pasta with fresh tomatoes and basil.
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Pasta Delight for a garlicky, cheesy indulgence.
Crack Chicken Penne for a creamy, bacon-packed pasta experience.
One Pot Philly Cheesesteak Pasta if you’re craving comfort with a twist.
Butternut Squash Ravioli for a cozy fall-flavored treat.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you dial up the heat or keep it mild? Maybe you tried it with shrimp or added extra veggies?

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