Name: Rattlesnake Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced; 2 cups gemelli pasta (or penne/rotini); 1 cup heavy cream; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (plus extra for garnish); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 yellow onion, finely chopped; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

This Rattlesnake Pasta is a fiery, creamy fusion that wraps your taste buds in bold Southwest flavor with every forkful. It features spiraled gemelli pasta smothered in a spicy Cajun cream sauce, paired with perfectly grilled chicken and sweet peppers for the ultimate weeknight indulgence. The balance of heat and richness is what makes this dish so addictive.

Inspired by restaurant favorites like those from J. Alexander’s or Cheddar’s, this homemade version amps up the flavor while keeping things simple and accessible. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or craving something new for dinner, Rattlesnake Pasta brings bold comfort to the table in just the right way.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use for Rattlesnake Pasta?

Gemelli is a fantastic choice for Rattlesnake Pasta because its twisted shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully. You can also opt for penne or rotini, which work just as well in capturing all that luscious, spicy cream. Avoid delicate noodles like angel hair, as they won’t stand up to the robust sauce and hearty chicken.

Ingredients for the Rattlesnake Pasta

Chicken breast – Lean, juicy, and protein-packed. Grilled or pan-seared, it soaks in the spice rub and adds heartiness to the dish.

Gemelli pasta – The perfect shape to hold the creamy Cajun sauce in every bite.

Heavy cream – Provides the silky base for the spicy sauce.

Cajun seasoning – The key spice blend that gives Rattlesnake Pasta its signature heat and smoky depth.

Garlic and onion – Essential aromatics that build layers of savory flavor.

Bell peppers (red or yellow) – For sweetness and color contrast to the spice.

Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty richness that melts beautifully into the sauce.

Butter – For sautéing and extra creaminess.

Fresh parsley – A pop of freshness to finish the dish.

Shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella (optional) – For extra gooeyness and melt-in-your-mouth texture.

How To Make the Rattlesnake Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the gemelli pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Slice chicken breasts into strips. Toss with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a hot skillet, sear the chicken in olive oil until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté chopped onion and minced garlic until fragrant. Add sliced bell peppers and cook until just softened.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Cajun seasoning, then add shredded Parmesan cheese and optional Monterey Jack. Stir until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and seared chicken to the sauce. Toss everything together until fully coated. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a pinch more Cajun spice if you like it spicier.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot!

How to Serve and Store Rattlesnake Pasta

This pasta is best served immediately while hot and creamy. Pair it with a crisp side salad or some warm, buttery garlic bread to soak up that extra sauce.

Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this pasta?

It has a moderate kick from the Cajun seasoning. For less heat, use a mild blend or reduce the quantity.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely! Just slice and toss it in with the sauce toward the end to warm it up.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme will work in a pinch.

Is there a dairy-free version?

You can try using full-fat coconut milk and a vegan Parmesan alternative, though the flavor and texture will change.

Can I freeze this pasta?

It’s not ideal. The cream sauce may separate upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed fresh or from the fridge.

Want More Dinner Ideas with a Kick?

If you love this bold and creamy Rattlesnake Pasta, check out these flavor-packed favorites next:

Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for seafood lovers.
Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine if you like smoky garlic butter flair.
One Skillet Sweet & Spicy Sticky Chicken Pasta when you want something fast and fiery.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken and Rotini for a milder but comforting twist.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you crank up the Cajun heat? Did you use rotisserie chicken instead?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook bolder and better.