Cajun Chicken and Pasta in Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients:
1.5 lbs chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
2 tbsp olive oil
12 oz penne pasta
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup chicken broth
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
1 tbsp unsalted butter
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
Fresh chopped parsley for garnish
Directions:
1. Cook the pasta: Boil penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the chicken: Toss chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Build the creamy base: Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, and diced tomatoes with their juices. Bring to a simmer.
5. Add cheeses: Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until melted and the sauce becomes velvety and rich.
6. Combine: Add cooked pasta and chicken into the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly in the creamy sauce.
7. Finish: Sprinkle with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes if using, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 5 | Calories: ~740 per serving