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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken seasoned with bold Cajun spices, a rich and velvety cream sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and a hit with the whole family. The dish offers a delicious balance of spicy, smoky, and creamy flavors with colorful vegetables, making it an irresistible one-pot (almost) meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Spices & Seasonings

  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (blend of paprika, garlic, onion, cayenne)

Dairy

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tbsp butter

Vegetables

  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Pasta

  • 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta

Oils

  • 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized strips and generously coat them with Cajun seasoning to infuse bold flavor into every piece.
  2. Cook the Chicken: Heat butter and olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
  3. Sauté Vegetables and Garlic: In the same skillet, add diced bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, releasing a sweet and savory aroma that enhances the sauce.
  4. Make the Cream Sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese into the skillet. Stir continuously to blend the sauce with the vegetables and pan juices, allowing it to thicken slightly for a rich and creamy texture.
  5. Boil Pasta: Cook the chosen pasta in salted boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning.
  6. Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the cream sauce, then gently fold in the drained pasta. Add reserved pasta water if needed to reach a silky consistency. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Use Fresh Spices: Fresh Cajun seasoning or homemade blends amplify the flavor intensity.
  • Don’t Overcook Chicken: Cooking just until done keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
  • Reserve Pasta Water: Utilize starchy pasta water to adjust sauce thickness and help it adhere to pasta.
  • Let the Sauce Simmer: Allow cream and cheese to meld fully for smooth and indulgent texture.
  • Serve Hot: Cream sauces thicken as they cool, so enjoy the dish fresh from the stove.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta, creamy pasta, quick dinner, spicy chicken pasta, comfort food

Find it online: https://marybaking.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-pasta/