Cajun Chicken Pasta
A delightful dish that combines bold Cajun flavors with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and al dente penne pasta, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Pasta and Sauce
- 12 oz penne pasta Can substitute with another pasta type.
- 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with low-fat cream or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Feel free to use different types of cheese.
Chicken and Vegetables
- 2 pieces chicken breasts, sliced Marinate in Cajun seasoning for richer flavor.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust to taste.
- 1 bell pepper, sliced bell pepper, sliced You can use red, yellow, or green.
- 1 piece onion, chopped Sauté until soft.
Cooking Additions
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing vegetables.
- to taste Salt and pepper Adjust seasoning as needed.
- for garnish Fresh parsley Chopped, for serving.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil.
- Sauté the chopped onion and sliced bell pepper until soft.
Cooking
- Add the sliced chicken and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through.
- Pour in the heavy cream and mix in the Parmesan cheese. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly over low heat.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until the pasta is well-coated.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting as needed for your palate.
- Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
Notes
Best enjoyed warm. Serve in shallow bowls topped with extra Parmesan and parsley. Pair with a green salad or crusty bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat gently over low heat.