This recipe elevates simple pasta to a culinary masterpiece, showcasing the bold and unforgettable flavors of Chicken Big Mamou. Forget your everyday pasta dish; this is a flavor adventure waiting to happen. The spicy, savory, and slightly sweet sauce coats the pasta perfectly, creating a dish that's both comforting and exciting. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates.
What is Chicken Big Mamou?
Before we dive into the recipe, let's understand the star of the show: Chicken Big Mamou. This isn't your average chicken dish. It's a Cajun and Creole-inspired culinary creation, typically featuring chicken simmered in a rich, dark roux-based sauce. This sauce is generously seasoned with a blend of spices, including cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic, and onions, giving it its signature fiery kick and complex flavor profile. The "Big Mamou" part often refers to the generous use of spices, creating a bold and unforgettable taste. While specific recipes vary, the core elements remain consistent: a dark roux, tender chicken, and a symphony of spices.
Ingredients You'll Need
This recipe makes a generous serving for 4-6 people. Adjust ingredient quantities as needed depending on your desired serving size.
- For the Chicken Big Mamou:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- For the Pasta:
- 1 lb pasta of your choice (penne, rotini, or fettuccine work well)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide
Preparing the Chicken Big Mamou:
- Season and Sear: Season chicken cubes generously with salt and pepper. Dredge in flour, shaking off any excess. Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear chicken in batches until browned on all sides. Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
- Build the Flavor Base: Add chopped onions and bell peppers to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Create the Sauce: Stir in Cajun seasoning, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), thyme, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices.
- Simmer to Perfection: Add diced tomatoes (undrained) and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer, then return the seared chicken to the pot. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking the Pasta:
- Boil the Pasta: While the chicken is simmering, cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
Combining and Serving:
- Toss and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the pot with the Chicken Big Mamou sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
- Garnish and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Tips and Variations
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness. For a milder dish, omit it altogether.
- Other Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp, sausage, or Andouille sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Vegetables: Add other vegetables like chopped carrots, celery, or mushrooms to the sauce.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Cheese Please: A sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese adds a delightful savory element.
This Chicken Big Mamou Pasta recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The rich, flavorful sauce and tender chicken create a truly unforgettable dining experience. So, gather your ingredients, put on your chef's hat, and get ready to embark on a culinary adventure!
