CAJUN CHICKEN PASTA WITH PARMESAN CREAM
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
12 oz penne pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a bowl, toss chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the pan.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let the sauce simmer gently for 4–5 minutes, or until thickened slightly. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and a dash of onion powder if desired.
Add the cooked pasta into the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce. Return the cooked chicken on top and let everything heat through for another 2–3 minutes.
Plate the creamy Cajun chicken pasta and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~620 per serving