Creamy Parmesan Fettuccine with Cajun Chicken Bites
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil
12 oz fettuccine pasta
3 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Directions:
Season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes.
Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer and thicken slightly.
Meanwhile, cook the fettuccine according to package directions. Reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then drain the pasta.
Add cooked fettuccine and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss to coat the pasta in the creamy Parmesan sauce.
Return the Cajun chicken bites to the skillet and stir gently. Let everything simmer together for 2-3 more minutes to soak up the flavors.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approx. 790 per serving