Description
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings together bold Cajun flavors, tender chicken, and a luscious creamy sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. It’s a restaurant-quality meal you can whip up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a special weekend dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 12 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your favorite shape)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
- Rub the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Reduce the heat to medium. Stir in the chicken broth, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, paprika, and remaining Cajun seasoning.
- Simmer for 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens.
Step 5: Combine Everything
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat in the sauce.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust the Heat: Add more or less Cajun seasoning depending on your spice tolerance.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Al dente pasta holds up better in the creamy sauce.
- Use Fresh Parmesan: Grate it yourself for the best flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American