Get ready to fall in love with Rattlesnake Pasta—a wildly flavorful, creamy, and spicy chicken pasta that’s bursting with color and comfort. This dish has all the makings of a restaurant favorite, with juicy strips of Cajun-seasoned chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and a pepper jack-Parmesan cream sauce that wraps every bite in a hug. Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinner routine or wow friends at your next gathering, this pasta brings excitement and warmth to the table in less than 40 minutes. If you crave a little heat and a whole lot of creamy goodness, Rattlesnake Pasta is about to become your new obsession.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Rattlesnake Pasta lies in a short list of bold, fresh ingredients that come together for a dish that’s anything but ordinary. Each one plays a crucial role, from the pasta that soaks up all the flavors to the Cajun spices that dial up the excitement.
- Fettuccine or Penne Pasta (12 ounces): The perfect base—choose your favorite shape for maximum sauce catching!
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (1 pound, cut into thin strips): Tender strips soak up seasoning and stay juicy in the creamy sauce.
- Olive Oil (2 tablespoons): Essential for browning the chicken and sautéing veggies, adding richness and flavor.
- Red Bell Pepper (1, thinly sliced): Brings sweetness and a pop of vibrant color to the dish.
- Green Bell Pepper (1, thinly sliced): Adds an earthy flavor and even more color contrast.
- Red Onion (1/2 small, sliced): Lends a subtle sweetness and beautiful purple hue.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): The aromatic backbone that deepens every bite.
- Heavy Cream (1 1/2 cups): For that irresistibly silky, luxurious sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds nutty, salty depth and thickens the sauce perfectly.
- Pepper Jack Cheese (1/2 cup, shredded): Delivers creamy texture and that signature spicy kick.
- Cajun Seasoning (1 teaspoon): The heart of the “rattlesnake” flavor—smoky, spicy, and bold.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): For those who like extra heat (you can always start with less!).
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings out the flavors and balances the heat.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a warm, earthy undertone.
- Chopped Fresh Parsley: The final flourish of freshness and color for serving.
How to Make Rattlesnake Pasta
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in your fettuccine or penne, cooking until just al dente so the pasta holds up in the creamy sauce. Once it’s ready, drain and set aside, but don’t forget to reserve a splash of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later. This simple step sets the foundation for your Rattlesnake Pasta adventure!
Step 2: Sauté and Season the Chicken
While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper, then add them to the hot pan. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is beautifully browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it handy—you’ll want every last piece back in the mix soon.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
In the same skillet (no need to wash—it’s all flavor!), add the sliced red and green bell peppers, red onion, and garlic. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, just until the veggies are softened and fragrant. They add gorgeous color and sweetness that makes Rattlesnake Pasta so irresistible.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, scraping up any tasty browned bits from the pan. Stir in the Parmesan and pepper jack cheese, letting them melt into a rich, velvety sauce. If you’re craving more heat, sprinkle in the crushed red pepper flakes. The sauce should be smooth and just thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
Step 5: Toss Everything Together
Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the noodles and chicken are enveloped in that luscious sauce—about 2 to 3 minutes. If the sauce seems thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Now, your Rattlesnake Pasta is ready for its grand entrance!
How to Serve Rattlesnake Pasta
Garnishes
A final flourish of chopped fresh parsley brings brightness and a touch of color to your Rattlesnake Pasta. For even more excitement, try shaving a bit of extra Parmesan or scattering a pinch of red pepper flakes over the top. These little touches make each plate feel special and restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This bold pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, which helps balance the richness. Warm, crusty bread is another must—perfect for mopping up every drop of that creamy, spicy sauce. If you want a veggie side, try roasted asparagus or simple sautéed green beans for a little extra green.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Rattlesnake Pasta pop by serving it in a wide, shallow bowl so the colorful peppers and creamy sauce really shine. For a fun twist, try topping individual servings with a swirl of hot sauce or a dollop of sour cream. Hosting a party? Serve the pasta family-style on a big platter garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges for a festive, interactive meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, transfer your Rattlesnake Pasta to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as they mingle, and it makes a fantastic next-day lunch.
Freezing
While this pasta is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that creamy sauces can sometimes separate after thawing, but a gentle stir during reheating usually brings them back together.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. The microwave works in a pinch too—cover and heat in short bursts, stirring between each, until hot throughout.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Main Course
Absolutely! While fettuccine and penne both work wonderfully, you can swap in rigatoni, rotini, or even spaghetti if that’s what you have on hand. The most important thing is to cook it al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
How can I make Rattlesnake Pasta even spicier?
If you’re a true heat seeker, double up on the Cajun seasoning, add extra crushed red pepper flakes, or drizzle in your favorite hot sauce. Pepper jack cheese also brings a nice kick, so feel free to increase the amount for even more spice.
Is there a lighter version of this dish?
You can lighten things up by swapping heavy cream for half-and-half or using a reduced-fat cheese. For an even leaner meal, try using chicken breast or even turkey breast, and load up on extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach.
Can I substitute shrimp or sausage for the chicken?
Definitely! Rattlesnake Pasta is incredibly versatile—shrimp cooks quickly and adds a seafood twist, while sliced andouille or smoked sausage brings smoky, savory depth. Just adjust the cooking times as needed for your protein.
What’s the best way to make the sauce extra smooth?
The secret is using freshly grated cheese, which melts much more smoothly than pre-shredded. Also, keep the heat gentle when adding the cream and cheeses, and stir constantly for a silky, lump-free sauce.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready for a pasta night that’s equal parts bold and comforting, give Rattlesnake Pasta a try. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone to the table, eager for seconds. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular request in your kitchen!
Print
Rattlesnake Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Rattlesnake Pasta is a creamy, spicy Cajun-inspired dish featuring tender chicken strips, sautéed bell peppers and onions, all tossed with pasta in a rich pepper jack and Parmesan cheese sauce. Perfect for those craving a flavorful, comforting meal with a kick of heat.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1/2 small red onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine or penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well and set aside.
- Prepare the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add the sliced red and green bell peppers, red onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables become softened but still slightly crisp.
- Make the creamy sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet with the vegetables and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan and shredded pepper jack cheese, allowing the cheeses to melt smoothly into the sauce. If you want extra heat, add the crushed red pepper flakes at this stage.
- Combine all ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the drained pasta, and toss everything together thoroughly until the pasta is well coated and heated through, about 2 to 3 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve: Garnish the pasta with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately to enjoy the creamy, spicy flavors at their best.
Notes
- For extra heat, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a splash of hot sauce to the sauce.
- You can substitute shrimp or sausage in place of the chicken for variation.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan and pepper jack cheese for the best creamy texture and flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the vegetables; they should remain slightly crisp to retain texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 135mg
