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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

A deliciously bold dish that combines creamy pasta with the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning, perfect for a quick family meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken and Seasoning
  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Can substitute with shrimp for a lighter dish.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For frying the chicken.
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Use more or less depending on desired spice level.
Pasta and Sauce Ingredients
  • 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti Any pasta shape will work.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter For making the sauce.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced For flavoring the sauce.
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Additional seasoning for the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half or plant-based cream for a lighter version.
  • ½ cup chicken broth Can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) For garnish.
  • Red pepper flakes For added heat if desired.
  • Fresh lemon juice For a bright finish.
  • Sautéed bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms (optional) Optional for added nutrition and flavor.
  • Shrimp as a chicken substitute (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning on both sides.
  2. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and sear them for 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken and let it rest.
  3. While the chicken is resting, boil a pot of salted water. Add 12 oz of chosen pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente (about 8-10 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining the rest.
Cooking the Sauce
  1. In the same skillet used for the chicken, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and melt it over medium heat.
  2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  3. Mix in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, cooking for another minute.
  4. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and ½ cup of chicken broth. Let it simmer for about 4-5 minutes until it thickens slightly.
  5. Add ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce.
Combining Ingredients
  1. Add the cooked pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat each piece with the sauce.
  2. Use the reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce if needed.
  3. Add sliced chicken back into the skillet and mix everything well.
Garnishing and Serving
  1. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped parsley, more Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Notes

For best results, ensure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a nice sear. Adjust the sauce texture using reserved pasta water if necessary. Watch the garlic while sautéing to prevent burning it.