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Vibrant Rattlesnake Pasta in a pan with creamy penne, chicken, red and green bell peppers, and spices, ready to serve.

Spicy Chicken Rattlesnake Pasta

This fiery pasta dish combines tender cubes of chicken with penne pasta in a rich, creamy sauce infused with Cajun seasoning, bell peppers, and spicy jalapeños. Perfect for those who enjoy a kick, this recipe offers a flavorful and satisfying meal.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 700
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 1 Tablespoon olive oil
  • 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into 1 inch cubes
  • 4 Tablespoons butter
  • 1 onion finely minced
  • 2 teaspoons minced garlic or 4 cloves fresh, finely chopped
  • ⅓ cup flour
  • 4 cups whole milk
  • 3 teaspoons cajun seasoning
  • 1 green bell pepper chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped
  • 3 jalapeños sliced; remove seeds for less spicy
  • 1.5 cups parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes optional

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large fry pan/skillet
  • Bowl
  • Knife

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cook penne pasta according to package directions; drain and set aside.
  2. Cut chicken breasts into 1-inch cubes. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, add chicken, and cook until an internal temperature of 165°F is reached. Remove chicken to a bowl and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced onions and garlic, cooking for 5 minutes until fragrant, stirring occasionally.
  4. Stir flour into the onion mixture until combined, creating a thick paste.
  5. Gradually add 1 cup of whole milk at a time, stirring well after each addition until fully incorporated and the sauce begins to smooth. Repeat until all 4 cups of milk are added.
  6. Add Cajun seasoning and optional red chili pepper flakes, then stir in chopped bell peppers and sliced jalapeños. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  7. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until completely melted, then add the cooked chicken and pasta, tossing to combine thoroughly.
  8. Serve the Spicy Chicken Rattlesnake Pasta immediately and enjoy.

Notes

Adjust the amount of jalapeño seeds and red chili pepper flakes to control the spice level according to your preference. The original recipe suggests leaving seeds in for maximum heat.