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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: Comfort Meets Spice - Image 3

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

A delicious fusion of creamy and spicy flavors, this Cajun chicken pasta is perfect for a comforting yet exciting meal. Quick to prepare and full of flavor.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts sliced into thin strips
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp salt or to taste
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper or to taste
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet
  • Colander for draining pasta
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breasts and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
  4. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.
  5. Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the sauce.

Notes

Chef's Tips:
• For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Avoid overcooking the pasta to prevent it from becoming mushy in the sauce.
• Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Food Safety:
• Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)
• Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking