1 serving (400 grams) contains 800 calories, 45.0 grams of protein, 35.0 grams of fat, and 70.0 grams of carbohydrates.
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Nutrition Information
Calories |
473.4 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 20.7 g | 26% | |
| Saturated Fat | 8.9 g | 44% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 71.0 mg | 23% | |
| Sodium | 710.1 mg | 30% | |
| Total Carbohydrates | 41.4 g | 15% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.4 g | 8% | |
| Sugars | 3.6 g | ||
| protein | 26.6 g | 53% | |
| Vitamin D | 11.8 mcg | 59% | |
| Calcium | 88.8 mg | 6% | |
| Iron | 1.8 mg | 10% | |
| Potassium | 355.0 mg | 7% | |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Food Attributes
Source of Calories
About Cajun chicken pasta
Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce, often made with heavy cream, butter, and spices like paprika and cayenne. Originating in Louisiana, the dish showcases the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine, influenced by French, African, and Spanish cooking traditions. Nutritionally, it is rich in protein from chicken, carbohydrates from pasta, and fats from the creamy base. Depending on preparation, it may also contain vitamins and minerals from added vegetables, such as bell peppers and onions, though it can be high in saturated fat and sodium.
Health Benefits
- High protein content from chicken helps support muscle repair and growth (27g of protein per 100g of cooked chicken).
- Complex carbohydrates from pasta provide sustained energy (approximately 25g per serving).
- Bell peppers in the recipe are high in Vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports immune health (almost 107mg per cup of raw bell pepper).
Dietary Considerations
Selection and Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to maintain sauce consistency.
Common Questions About Cajun chicken pasta Nutrition
Is Cajun Chicken Pasta high in protein?
Yes, Cajun Chicken Pasta is relatively high in protein due to the chicken component. A standard serving (about 1 cup) contains approximately 25-30 grams of protein, depending on the portion and how it is prepared.
Can I eat Cajun Chicken Pasta on a low-carb or keto diet?
Cajun Chicken Pasta is generally not keto-friendly or low-carb, as it contains pasta, which is high in carbohydrates. A typical serving can have 40-60 grams of carbs. To make it keto-friendly, you can substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or a low-carb pasta alternative.
What are the health benefits or concerns of Cajun Chicken Pasta?
Cajun Chicken Pasta provides several benefits, such as being high in protein and containing essential vitamins from added vegetables or spices. However, it can also be high in calories (approximately 400-600 per serving), saturated fat, and sodium depending on the sauce and portion size. Opting for lighter ingredients can make it a healthier option.
What is the recommended portion size for Cajun Chicken Pasta?
A recommended portion size for Cajun Chicken Pasta is about 1 to 1.5 cups, equating to around 300-400 calories depending on the recipe. Pairing it with a side of vegetables or a salad can help balance the meal nutritionally.
How does Cajun Chicken Pasta compare to Alfredo pasta?
Cajun Chicken Pasta typically has a spicier, more flavorful profile due to Cajun seasoning, while Alfredo pasta has a creamy and rich taste from its heavy cream and cheese base. Cajun Chicken Pasta might be slightly lower in calories and fat if made with a lighter sauce, but this depends on the specific recipe.
Data Sources & Scientific References
Our nutrition data comes from trusted, authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. Below are specific scientific references and authoritative sources for this food item.
Additional Authoritative Sources:
Daily value percentages based on FDA guidelines. Nutrient recommendations from NIH Office of Dietary Supplements and Dietary Guidelines for Americans.
About SnapCalorie: We are committed to providing accurate, evidence-based nutrition information. Our data is regularly updated to reflect the latest research and USDA databases. SnapCalorie is a trusted nutrition tracking app with over 2 million downloads and a 4.8/5 star rating.
