Description
This Easy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish combining tender Cajun-spiced chicken with al dente penne pasta tossed in a rich and creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it balances the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning with the smoothness of cream and cheese for an indulgent yet approachable meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Sauce
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside to be combined later.
- Cook the chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts evenly with the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning to ensure both sides become golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce: Using the same skillet, pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously to combine all ingredients well and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened and creamy.
- Combine pasta and chicken: Add the cooked penne pasta and the cooked Cajun chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together carefully to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Season and serve: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve the creamy Cajun chicken pasta immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer a few minutes longer to reduce.
- For extra veggies, consider adding sautéed bell peppers or spinach along with the chicken.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and smoother melting.
- Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk for a lighter version, but sauce may be less rich.
- Cook pasta just until al dente to prevent overcooking during mixing with sauce.