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Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

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  • Author: KimEasy
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Chicken Recipes
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American, Cajun

Description

A rich and creamy Cajun chicken penne pasta with a flavorful blend of spices, tender chicken, and a creamy sauce. This dish is perfectly balanced with heat, creaminess, and a satisfying texture.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 lb penne pasta
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, paprika, onion powder, black pepper, and salt.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
  7. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce. Add the cooked penne pasta and toss everything together until evenly coated.
  8. Serve the creamy Cajun chicken penne pasta hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

  • If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or use extra Cajun seasoning.
  • For a lighter version, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though the sauce may be less rich.
  • This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 950mg
  • Fat: 34g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg

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