Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Sauce
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 pound penne pasta
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper, or to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking chicken)
Directions:
Cook the penne: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package directions, usually around 10-12 minutes for al dente. Drain, reserving a cup of pasta water. Set aside.
Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant and golden.
Create the creamy Cajun sauce: Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to combine. Add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes, until it thickens slightly.
Combine the pasta and chicken: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy Cajun sauce. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet as well, tossing everything together until evenly coated. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Finish and serve: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~700 per serving