Pastalaya Recipe
A Cajun-inspired, one-pot pastalaya recipe loaded with chicken, turkey sausage, and fresh vegetables. It’s a flavorful mashup of pasta and jambalaya that delivers bold spices in every comforting bite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast cubed
- 12 –16 ounces turkey sausage sliced
- 1 large onion chopped
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 2 stalks celery diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14.5 ounces diced tomatoes
- 3 –4 cups chicken broth
- 12 ounces uncooked pasta penne or rotini recommended
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning adjust to taste
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons oil vegetable or olive oil
Optional: Sliced okra, cooked shrimp (added toward the end), extra Cajun seasoning
Instructions
- Warm oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Sauté onion, bell pepper, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Move veggies to the side and brown chicken pieces for 3–4 minutes, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper.
- Stir in turkey sausage and cook for 2 more minutes.
- Add diced tomatoes (with liquid) and Cajun seasoning; stir well.
- Pour in 3 cups of chicken broth, then add the uncooked pasta. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook for about 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente. Add more broth if needed.
- Taste and adjust seasonings. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Notes
This dish is perfect for those who want to enjoy hearty, authentic flavors without using pork or alcohol. Be mindful of the spice level and adjust Cajun seasoning to taste.