Cajun Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: ready in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights

• Flavorful: the Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick that complements the creamy sauce

• Comfort food: creamy pasta and seasoned chicken make for a satisfying meal

• Versatile: easily adaptable with different proteins or added vegetables

• Restaurant quality: enjoy a dish that rivals your favorite restaurant's version at home

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

• 8 ounces penne pasta

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ½ teaspoon lemon zest

• ¼ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

• 2 Roma tomatoes, diced

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the chicken, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and Cajun seasoning. Toss to coat evenly.

2. Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, flipping once, until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

4. In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

5. Stir in the heavy cream and lemon zest. Bring to a simmer and cook until slightly thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to combine. Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta. Garnish with diced tomatoes and chopped parsley.

8. Serve immediately and enjoy.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Protein swap: replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different take

• Vegetable add-ins: incorporate bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for added nutrition

• Spice level: adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to control the heat

• Cheese options: try using Asiago or a blend of Italian cheeses for a different flavor profile

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

• Reheating: reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through

FAQs

What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Penne pasta is ideal due to its ability to hold the creamy sauce, but other short pasta like rigatoni or fusilli can also be used.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the components ahead and assemble them when ready to serve. Store the cooked pasta and sauce separately for best results.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and butter as a lighter alternative, though the sauce may be less rich.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for extra heat.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, pre-cooked chicken can be used. Simply slice and warm it in the sauce before serving.

What can I serve alongside this pasta?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread complements this dish well.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It's not recommended to freeze this dish as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Ensure the sauce is heated gently and avoid boiling after adding the cream to prevent curdling.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free to make this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.

Can I add vegetables to this pasta?

Absolutely. Adding sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms can enhance the dish's flavor and nutritional value.

Conclusion

This Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe offers a delightful combination of spicy and creamy flavors, making it a perfect choice for a comforting yet exciting meal. With its quick preparation time and versatile nature, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Whether you're cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste right from your kitchen.

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