Description
Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta is a delightful dish that showcases the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine, making it a favorite among pasta lovers everywhere. This dish not only offers a comforting and creamy texture but also brings a vibrant kick that excites the taste buds. With its delicious blend of ingredients, including succulent chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a luscious cream sauce, this recipe is sure to become a staple on your dinner table. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also provides several health benefits thanks to its rich protein content and the inclusion of vegetables.
Ingredients
- 8 ounce penne pasta
- 1 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 tablespoon unsalted butter, divided
- 1 1/2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, divided
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 diced tomato
- 1/4 cup reserved pasta water
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Remember, al dente pasta will hold up better when mixed with the creamy sauce. Once cooked, reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain the rest and set aside.
- In a large zip-lock bag or bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper until they are evenly coated. This step is essential for infusing the chicken with flavor right from the start.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken pieces in a single layer and sear for 4 to 5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the diced onion and both diced bell peppers, sautéing for about 3 to 5 minutes until they are softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Next, pour in the heavy cream along with the remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, dried basil, and garlic powder. Stir well and bring to a gentle boil. Then, reduce the heat to a simmer for about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Once the sauce has thickened slightly, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Whisk until it melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
- Now, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained penne pasta along with the diced tomato. Toss everything together until each piece of pasta is fully coated in the creamy sauce.
- Plate your Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta immediately, garnishing generously with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan, if you like.
Notes
Using fresh ingredients is crucial not only for flavor but also for the overall nutritional value of your Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta. Quality ingredients equal quality flavor!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 100mg