Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or special family gatherings. Tender chicken thighs and al dente penne pasta are enveloped in a luscious sauce made from cream cheese and Parmesan, spiced with zesty Cajun seasoning. This dish not only impresses with its vibrant taste but also offers versatility for customizing with your favorite vegetables or proteins. In just 30 minutes, you can create a comforting meal that everyone at the table will love. Serve it alongside garlic bread and a fresh salad for a balanced dinner that satisfies.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 300 g penne pasta
- 1 ½ tablespoons cajun seasoning
- 120 g cream cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup finely chopped yellow onions
- ½ tablespoon chopped garlic
- ⅓ cup chopped green onions
- ½ cup milk
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cut chicken thighs into uniform cubes, season with salt, black pepper, and Cajun spices; set aside.
- Boil salted water in a large pot, cook penne pasta until al dente according to package instructions, then drain, reserving about 1 cup of pasta water.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat; add seasoned chicken and cook until no longer pink (5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, sauté butter, onions, and garlic until soft (30–60 seconds). Stir in milk, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, remaining Cajun spice, and reserved pasta water; mix until creamy.
- Add drained pasta to the sauce and return cooked chicken; toss until warmed through. Finish with chopped green onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 13g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Feel free to swap out chicken for turkey or beef based on preference. Add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition.