Description
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a bold and flavorful dish that perfectly balances rich, creamy sauce with the zesty kick of Cajun seasoning. Ideal for dinner parties or cozy family meals, this recipe features tender chicken sautéed to golden perfection, combined with pasta and a velvety sauce that will tantalize your taste buds. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s quick enough for busy weeknights yet impressive enough to serve to guests. Customize it by swapping chicken for shrimp or adding your favorite vegetables for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition. This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta will surely become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Sautéed vegetables (optional)
- Shrimp (optional)
Instructions
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and cook seasoned chicken until golden brown, about 6-7 minutes per side. Remove and slice.
- In the same skillet, melt butter; add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in Cajun seasoning, heavy cream, and chicken broth; mix until well combined.
- Add sliced chicken and cooked pasta; toss until coated in sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Serve garnished with parsley and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Marinate chicken in Cajun seasoning ahead of time for deeper flavor. Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.