Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne with Garlic Butter Sauce
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until tender. Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook for 6–7 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate.
Reduce the heat to medium, add butter to the same skillet, and stir in the garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Sprinkle in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 4–5 minutes to slightly thicken.
Mix in the Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts smoothly into the sauce.
Add the cooked chicken and penne to the skillet. Toss gently until the pasta is evenly coated and everything is heated through.
Finish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley before serving warm.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4