Description
A bold and flavorful twist on comfort food, this Spicy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta blends tender chicken, zesty Cajun spices, colorful bell peppers, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend indulgence.
Ingredients
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8 oz penne pasta (or preferred pasta)
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2 chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
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2 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp unsalted butter
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, diced
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1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
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1/2 yellow bell pepper, sliced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup chicken broth
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1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
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Season & Cook Chicken: Toss chicken with Cajun seasoning. In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.
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Sauté Veggies: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic, onion, and bell peppers. Cook until soft and fragrant.
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Make Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in Parmesan cheese and simmer until slightly thickened.
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Combine Everything: Return chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat. Adjust seasoning as needed.
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Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with chopped parsley or green onions. Serve hot and enjoy.
Notes
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For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut cream.
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Add crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
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You can use gluten-free pasta or dairy-free cream to suit dietary preferences.
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Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of broth or cream.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 530mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 135mg