Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 12 oz (340g) penne pasta (or any preferred pasta type)
- 4 cups water
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Additional Parmesan cheese
- Cherry tomatoes (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
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Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot.
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Add salt and pasta, then cook according to the package instructions until al dente.
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Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
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Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
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Add the chicken strips and season them with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
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Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly browned.
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Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cajun Sauce
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In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic.
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Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
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Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously.
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Add Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and lemon juice.
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Stir well and let the sauce simmer on low heat until it thickens.
Step 4: Combine Everything
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Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce.
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Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
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Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
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Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
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Serve hot with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: Americans
Nutrition
- Calories: 550
- Sodium: 720mg
- Protein: 35g
Keywords: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe