Description
This delicious creamy Cajun chicken pasta combines tender chicken, bold Cajun spices, and a rich creamy sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti
- Salt, for the pasta water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Sautéed vegetables (optional)
- Shrimp (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through. Remove from the skillet and slice into strips.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water.
- In the same skillet, add butter and garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Add heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and reduce the heat to low. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the sauce. Toss everything together to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until desired consistency is reached.
Notes
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes. A squeeze of lemon juice enhances the flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun