Description
A vibrant and comforting dish featuring spiced chicken, al dente pasta, and a velvety Cajun sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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 pasta water)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (for the sauce)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Fresh lemon juice (for brightness)
- Sautéed vegetables (optional, for added nutrition)
- Shrimp (optional, as a substitute for chicken)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Season chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove and let rest.
- Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook your pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Make the Cajun Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Gradually pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well. Let the sauce simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens. Mix in Parmesan cheese.
- Combine Everything: Slice the chicken and add it to the sauce, along with the cooked pasta. Toss well to coat everything evenly. Serve hot with fresh parsley and your favorite toppings.
Notes
Best served with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice. Can be paired with a simple side salad or garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: creamy pasta, Cajun, chicken, quick dinner, weeknight meal