Cajun Chicken Pasta
Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful dish that features seasoned chicken, creamy sauce, and penne pasta, perfect for a quick and comforting meal.
Ingredients
Pasta and Chicken
- 12 oz penne pasta You can use whole-grain or gluten-free for a healthier option.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts For the juiciest flavor, consider using thighs, too.
Seasonings and Oils
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning Homemade blends can enhance the flavor; adjust according to taste.
- 2 tbsp olive oil Provides richness; feel free to use avocado oil if you prefer.
- Salt and pepper To taste; always season in layers for the best flavor.
Vegetables
- 4 cloves garlic, minced Opt for fresh garlic to infuse more depth.
- 1 medium bell pepper, sliced Choose any color for visual appeal and flavor variation.
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 cup heavy cream For a lighter version, you can substitute with Greek yogurt.
- 1 cup chicken broth Homemade broth takes it to another level.
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is always a winner; it melts beautifully.
Instructions
Cooking the Pasta
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Seasoning and Cooking the Chicken
- While your pasta is cooking, pat your chicken dry and sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly over both sides.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear for about 6-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the pan and let rest.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the garlic and sliced bell pepper. Cook for about 3 minutes, letting them soften and the garlic become fragrant.
Preparing the Sauce
- Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for a couple of minutes. Slowly whisk in the heavy cream, stirring until combined.
Combining Everything
- Slice the rested chicken into strips and add it back to the skillet along with the drained pasta and Parmesan cheese. Toss until everything is well-coated, beautifully combined, and seasoned to your liking.
Notes
You can customize this recipe by adding seasonal veggies or modifying the spice level. For a healthier twist, substitute half the heavy cream with Greek yogurt. Reserve some pasta cooking water to help the sauce cling better.