Discover the rich and spicy flavors of the South with this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. It combines tender, spiced chicken with a velvety cream sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. This dish will transport your taste buds straight to Louisiana with every bite, making it a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
🍗 2 chicken breasts
🌶️ 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
🌶️ 1 teaspoon chili powder
🌶️ 1 teaspoon paprika
🧂 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
🧄 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
🧅 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
🛢️ 2 tablespoons oil
For the Pasta:
🍝 1 pound pasta (cook according to package directions)
🧈 3 tablespoons butter
🌶️ Bell pepper, any color
🧅 1 small onion
🧄 2 cloves of garlic
🥛 2 cups heavy cream
🧀 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
🌶️ 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
🌶️ 1/2 tablespoon paprika
🧄 1 teaspoon garlic powder
🧅 1 teaspoon onion powder
🌶️ 1 teaspoon chili powder
🧂 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
💧 1/2 cup pasta water
Instructions
1- Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
- Mix the Cajun seasoning, chili powder, paprika, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Use this spice mixture to season the chicken breasts thoroughly.
- Heat the oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until fully cooked through, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2- Cook the Pasta:
- While the chicken is cooking, boil a pot of water and cook the pasta according to the directions on the package. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
3- Make the Cream Sauce:
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic, bell pepper, and onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
- Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese has melted into the sauce.
- Season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, chili powder, and black pepper. Mix well to combine all flavors.
4- Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, along with the reserved pasta water, to loosen up the sauce. Toss everything to coat the pasta evenly.
- Slice the cooked chicken and add it back into the skillet. Stir to combine and heat through.
5- Serve:
- Remove from heat and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with additional Parmesan cheese or fresh parsley.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 700 per serving
Proteins, Fats, and Carbohydrates per Serving:
- Protein: 35g
- Fat: 40g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
Equipment Needed: Skillet, pot, colander, cutting board, knife
Cooking Tips:
- Adjust the spice level to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of chili powder and Cajun seasoning.
- For a lighter version, swap heavy cream with half-and-half or a milk substitute, and use whole wheat pasta.
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