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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

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A delightful dish blending bold Cajun flavors with a creamy texture, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Thighs can be used for more flavor.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For cooking the chicken.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Key to the dish's bold flavor.
  • 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti Any pasta works; penne/fettuccine are great for creamy sauces.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Makes the sauce velvety and rich.
  • ½ cup chicken broth Adds a savory base to the sauce.
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds salty, umami depth.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Brings aromatic depth.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Complementary smoky flavor.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter Forms the base of the creamy sauce.
  • Sautéed vegetables optional bell peppers, onions, spinach, or mushrooms For extra flavor and nutrition.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Season the chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add salt. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta.
Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, melt the butter and add minced garlic, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  2. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, then pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
  3. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it thicken for about 3-4 minutes. Add the Parmesan cheese and mix until melted and creamy.
Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
  1. Slice the cooked chicken and add it to the sauce, along with the cooked pasta. Toss everything together, adding some reserved pasta water if needed to achieve the desired consistency.
  2. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and garnish with chopped parsley and red pepper flakes.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2g

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if necessary.
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