A rich and creamy pasta dish with a bold kick, Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta is a feast for your taste buds. This flavorful favorite combines juicy, blackened chicken with tender penne pasta in a silky, spicy Alfredo-style sauce. Red bell peppers add a pop of sweetness and color, while fresh herbs lend an aromatic finish that brings it all together beautifully.

Despite its fiery name, there are no snakes involved—just a sassy Southern flair. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a comforting dish to impress friends, this pasta delivers heat and heart in every bite.

Ingredients for Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta

12 oz penne pasta
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1½ cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
¼ tsp black pepper
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce if needed.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. Toss them in a bowl with Cajun seasoning, ensuring they are evenly coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed. Toss in the sliced red bell peppers and sauté for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Make the Spicy Cream Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt to taste. Stir constantly until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated and heated through. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Storage Instructions

To store leftover Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to help restore the sauce’s creamy texture. Microwave in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, or warm gently on the stovetop over low heat.

Freezing is not ideal due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate when thawed. However, if necessary, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month and thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Estimated Nutrition

Per Serving (based on 4 servings):

Calories: 620
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 135mg
Sodium: 640mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 4g

Note: These are estimates and may vary based on specific brands and portions used.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta?

It’s a creamy pasta dish made with penne, spicy blackened chicken, peppers, and a rich Alfredo-style sauce seasoned with Cajun spices.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes! Reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes and opt for a mild Cajun seasoning.

Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely. Fettuccine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti can work well as substitutes.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes. Replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms, tofu, or a plant-based protein, and use vegetarian-friendly Parmesan.

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Use gentle heat and stir continuously when adding cheese and cream. Avoid boiling the sauce.

Can I prep any components in advance?

You can cook the chicken and boil the pasta ahead of time, then store them separately until ready to combine with the sauce.

What goes well as a side dish?

Garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted veggies make excellent sides.

Can I double the recipe for a crowd?

Definitely. Just scale the ingredients and use a large skillet or pot to accommodate everything evenly.

Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta is a bold, creamy, and comforting pasta dish featuring tender penne, juicy Cajun-spiced chicken, and sweet red bell peppers all tossed in a rich, spicy Alfredo sauce. It’s a Southern-inspired meal that delivers heat and satisfaction in every bite.

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Slice chicken into strips and coat with Cajun seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté red bell peppers for 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in Parmesan, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt. Mix until smooth.
Return chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated and warmed through.
Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course