Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 pound pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite shape)
4 tablespoons butter
4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
3 cups milk
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
Directions:
1. Cook the Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), and black pepper.
3. Sauté Vegetables and Chicken: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the remaining olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced bell peppers. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
5. Make the Sauce: Melt the butter in the skillet. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. Gradually whisk in the milk and chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
6. Add Cheese and Cream: Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in the heavy cream, sun-dried tomatoes, parsley, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Add a squeeze of lemon juice, if desired, for a bit of brightness.
7. Combine and Serve: Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly. Heat through gently.
8. Garnish and Serve: Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6 | Calories: Approximately 650-750 per serving