Description
A rich and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, Cajun seasoning, and a creamy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti
- Salt, for the pasta water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (to taste)
- Fresh lemon juice (to taste)
- Sautéed vegetables (optional)
- Shrimp (as a substitution for chicken, optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through. Remove the chicken and let it rest before slicing.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken into the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning as needed.
Notes
For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate in the Cajun seasoning for at least 30 minutes before cooking. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing, Boiling
- Cuisine: Cajun