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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

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A quick and easy creamy Cajun chicken pasta recipe ready in 30 minutes, featuring a spicy, creamy sauce with tender chicken and al dente pasta. Perfect for busy weeknights and cozy dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 12 oz / 340 g), sliced into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin recommended)
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 medium bell pepper, sliced thinly (red or green)
  • 1 small yellow or white onion, diced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream (full-fat or half-and-half for lighter version)
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) low sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)
  • 8 oz (225 g) penne or fettuccine pasta, cooked al dente
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 oz (225 g) pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente (usually 9-11 minutes). Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup (120 ml) pasta water for the sauce.
  2. While pasta cooks, toss the sliced chicken breast with 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, a pinch of salt, and black pepper. Ensure every piece is coated well.
  3. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sliced bell pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in 1/2 cup (120 ml) chicken broth to deglaze the pan, scraping up any browned bits with your spatula. Then add 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream and stir well. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly. If it gets too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
  6. Return the chicken to the pan, then add the cooked pasta. Toss to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce. Stir in 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness and seasoning. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Optionally, sprinkle a little cayenne for extra heat.
  7. Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top. Serve immediately while warm and creamy. Optionally, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.

Notes

Do not overcrowd the pan when cooking chicken to ensure proper searing. Keep sauce simmering gently to avoid cream separation. Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce thickness. Add Parmesan cheese off heat or on low to avoid graininess. Adjust spice level by adding cayenne pepper if desired.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta, creamy pasta, quick dinner, easy pasta recipe, spicy chicken pasta, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://emmayum.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-pasta-recipe-easy-and-ready-in-30-minutes/