Creamy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with Cajun Lemon Chicken bites
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
12 oz bowtie pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice
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: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Cajun Lemon Chicken: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown. Add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the chicken, stirring to coat. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, cooking for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
Combine and Serve: Add the cooked pasta back to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the creamy Parmesan sauce. Return the Cajun lemon chicken to the skillet and mix everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 700 (approximate)