Rasta Pasta with Jerk Chicken and Sausage
Rasta Pasta combines the bold flavors of jerk-seasoned chicken, smoky sausage, and creamy, cheesy pasta. With sautéed bell peppers and a rich sauce, this dish is the perfect blend of spice, comfort, and Caribbean flair. It’s an ideal meal for weeknights or special occasions and comes together in just over 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 25 min
- Total Time: 35 min
- Yield: 4-6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Caribbean Fusion
Ingredients
- 12 oz dried pasta (penne, rigatoni, or fusilli recommended)
- 2 large chicken breasts, cubed
- 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced (e.g., Andouille or kielbasa)
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
- 3 tbsp jerk seasoning, divided
- 3 bell peppers, thinly sliced (red, yellow, and green)
- ½ cup green onions, sliced
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup vegetable or chicken stock
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Optional garnish: chopped parsley, green onions, or chives
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken and Sausage:
- Toss the cubed chicken with 1½ tbsp jerk seasoning.
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the sausage slices and cook until browned, about 4-5 minutes. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the remaining 1 tbsp oil to the pot. Sauté the bell peppers and green onions until softened, about 4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Create the Sauce: Add the remaining 1½ tbsp jerk seasoning, vegetable stock, and heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Combine Everything: Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the chicken, sausage, and cooked pasta to the pot. Toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
6. Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with parsley, green onions, or chives if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Tips & Variations
- Protein Options: Swap chicken for shrimp, or use all three proteins for an even heartier dish.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk for a rich, creamy texture.
- Adjust Spice Level: For a milder flavor, reduce the jerk seasoning. Add cayenne for extra heat.
- Make Ahead: Cook the chicken, sausage, and sauce in advance. Combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.