Cajun Chicken with Parmesan Rigatoni Pasta
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
12 oz rigatoni pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the rigatoni pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Cajun Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, sauté the garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken for about 3-4 minutes.
Combine the Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked rigatoni pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat in the creamy sauce. Return the Cajun chicken to the skillet and mix everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 700 (approximate)