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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta That's Ready in Just 30 Minutes

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a quick and customizable dish perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 620

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Chicken Breasts Chicken thighs can be used as an alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Any neutral oil can be used.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Adjust according to spice preference.
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Pepper
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Pasta (Penne, Fettuccine, or Spaghetti) Choose your preferred pasta shape.
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter A vegan alternative can be used.
  • 3-4 cloves Garlic Fresh is best.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika Can swap for regular paprika.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Half-and-half can lighten it up.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be a lighter alternative.
  • ½ cup Parmesan Cheese Nutritional yeast works for dairy-free.
For Garnish
  • to taste Fresh Parsley Highly recommended!
  • Optional Add-Ins Red pepper flakes, lemon juice, or sautéed veggies.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Start by seasoning the chicken breasts generously with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning, ensuring even coverage. Let sit for about 10 minutes.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 6–7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing.
  3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 8–10 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain.
  4. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in an additional tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring continuously.
  6. Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1 cup of chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer over low heat for about 3–5 minutes.
  7. Add ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and smooth.
  8. Add the cooked pasta into the skillet with the sauce, tossing until fully coated. Adjust the consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
  9. Slice the rested chicken breasts and lay them atop the creamy pasta. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
  10. Consider adding optional extras like red pepper flakes or lemon juice. Serve immediately.

Nutrition

Serving: 1plateCalories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 20gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 250mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Taste as you go, and don’t burn the garlic. Reserve pasta water for sauce adjustments.

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