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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

A bowl of creamy pasta spiced with Cajun flair, featuring chicken pieces bursting with flavor, all in a one-pan recipe for easy cleanup.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Quick to cook and absorb Flavors
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps sear the chicken evenly.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning The secret to all that bold flavor!
  • Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper, to taste Essential for that delightful flavor boost.
  • 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti Pick your favorite, but penne and fettuccine are especially creamy-friendly.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds a delicious smoky note.
  • 1 cup heavy cream For that velvety sauce we all crave.
  • ½ cup chicken broth Thin out the sauce perfectly.
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese A sprinkle of salty goodness.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) For that pop of color.
  • Red pepper flakes Red pepper flakes If you like it hot, sprinkle some on.
  • Fresh lemon juice Fresh lemon juice Brightens the dish right before serving.
  • Sautéed vegetables Sautéed vegetables Think bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for an extra crunch.
  • Shrimp Shrimp (optional) Switch things up by substituting chicken with shrimp.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until golden brown and no longer pink inside, about 6-7 minutes per side. Then, remove chicken and set aside.
  2. In a separate pot, boil salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Making the Sauce
  1. In the same pan, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, then pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Let it simmer gently.
Combining the Dish
  1. Toss the cooked pasta into the cream sauce, slice the chicken, and add it back in. Stir in Parmesan cheese until gooey and delightful!

Notes

This dish can stick around in your fridge for about 3-4 days. Store in an airtight container. Cooked chicken and sauce can be made ahead of time.