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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe


  • Author: Jasmine
  • Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. Bring 4 cups of water to a boil in a large pot.

  2. Add salt and pasta, then cook according to the package instructions until al dente.

  3. Drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

  1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

  2. Add the chicken strips and season them with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

  3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and slightly browned.

  4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Cajun Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic.

  2. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

  3. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously.

  4. Add Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and lemon juice.

  5. Stir well and let the sauce simmer on low heat until it thickens.

Step 4: Combine Everything

  1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce.

  2. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together, ensuring the pasta is well coated with the sauce.

  3. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

  1. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.

  2. 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