Description
How to make creamy Cajun chicken and pasta with tender chicken, aromatic spices, and rich cream sauce that brings restaurant flavors home.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein and Pasta
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Cajun Seasoning Blend
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt
Creamy Sauce Base
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Mix all Cajun spices in a bowl, then toss chicken pieces until evenly coated. Let sit 10 minutes for flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Cook Pasta: Bring salted water to boil and cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining completely.
- Sear Chicken: Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook seasoned chicken 6-8 minutes until golden brown and cooked through, stirring occasionally.
- Build Sauce: Remove chicken to plate, add butter and minced garlic to same pan. Sauté 30 seconds until fragrant, then slowly whisk in cream and broth.
- Add Cheese: Bring sauce to gentle simmer, then whisk in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste as needed.
- Combine Everything: Return chicken to pan with drained pasta, tossing gently to coat. Add pasta water if needed for perfect creamy consistency that coats each piece.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, stir in fresh parsley, and serve immediately while hot. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley for beautiful restaurant-style presentation.
Notes
- Don’t let the cream sauce boil or it will curdle and ruin the smooth texture.
- Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days in refrigerator.
- Substitute half-and-half for lighter version, but sauce won’t be as rich.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
- Double the Cajun seasoning recipe and store extra in sealed jar for future use.
- Serve immediately while hot for best creamy consistency and optimal flavor.
Allergy Information: Dairy, Gluten
Nutrition
- Calories: 485 calories
- Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 32g