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Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

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A vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by Cajun cooking, featuring tender chicken in a rich, creamy sauce served over penne pasta.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (Slap Ya Mama or Tony Chachere’s)
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 lb penne pasta (cooked al dente)
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 0.5 cup diced tomatoes (canned drained or fresh)
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (for sauce, adjust to taste)
  • 0.5 tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley (chopped)
  • Paprika or Cajun spice (extra sprinkle for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Pound chicken breasts to even thickness and coat with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
  2. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until a dark crust forms and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove and let it rest.
  3. In the same skillet, lower heat to medium and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and scrape up browned bits.
  4. Stir in diced tomatoes and Cajun seasoning. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
  5. Toss cooked penne into the skillet. Stir until noodles are coated and tomatoes are evenly distributed.
  6. Slice rested chicken, plate pasta, and arrange chicken on top. Dust with Cajun spice or paprika and garnish with parsley.

Notes

For extra veggies, consider adding bell peppers or spinach. For a lighter version, use half-and-half and reduce cheese.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://pennykitchenz.com/easy-creamy-cajun-chicken-pasta-better-than-restaurants/

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