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CAJUN CHICKEN PASTA RECIPE centered hero view, clean and uncluttered

Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe Easy Weeknight Dinner


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  • Author: Emily cook
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Standard

Description

This Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is an easy dinner perfect for weeknight meals. Enjoy a creamy cajun pasta with tender chicken and fresh veggies for a simple family dinner everyone loves.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless chicken breasts
  • 12 ounces penne pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 medium bell peppers sliced
  • 1 medium onion diced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the penne pasta until just firm according to package instructions then drain, reserving one cup of the pasta water.
  2. Dice the chicken into small pieces then season with half of the Cajun seasoning along with salt and pepper.
  3. Warm the olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until nicely browned and fully cooked, about six to seven minutes, then set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the butter then cook the minced garlic, diced onion and sliced bell peppers until soft, around four to five minutes.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth to loosen the pan and scrape any browned bits stuck on the bottom.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream and remaining Cajun seasoning, letting the mixture gently simmer for three to four minutes until it thickens slightly.
  7. Mix in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and melted.
  8. Return the chicken pieces to the skillet and combine with the cooked pasta, tossing to coat everything evenly. Add some reserved pasta water if the sauce needs thinning.
  9. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve at once, adding extra Parmesan cheese if you like.

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
  • Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level
  • For a lighter version, substitute half the cream with chicken broth
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 625
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 52g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 42g