Description
This Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect balance of spicy, creamy, and comforting all in one dish! With tender chicken, a kick of Cajun seasoning, and a luscious creamy sauce, this recipe will quickly become a weeknight favorite. The best part? It’s so easy to make and ready in just 30 minutes, making it a great choice when you’re craving a bold, flavorful meal that’s quick and satisfying.
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Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast (or thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or use a dairy-free alternative)
- 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions, and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and more salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and cook for another 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Serve the pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
Notes
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you like your dishes extra spicy, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.
- Use Shrimp or Tofu: For a different twist, swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu for a seafood or vegetarian version.
- Make it Lighter: If you’re looking for a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut milk instead of heavy cream.
- Add Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or tomatoes to bulk up the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Cuisine: American