Description
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta brings together the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning and a rich, creamy sauce for a delicious and comforting meal. Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions, and sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the skillet and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the thinly sliced bell peppers and onion. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to combine. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it in the sauce. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss until everything is well combined and heated through. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Reserve a splash of pasta water to thin out the sauce if needed.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner Ideas
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 125mg