Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delectable dish that brings a taste of the South to your dinner table. Perfectly cooked penne pasta is enveloped in a rich, velvety sauce infused with zesty Cajun spices and tender chicken, creating a comforting meal that’s not only quick to prepare but also impressive enough for entertaining. This one-pan wonder marries bold flavors and creamy goodness, making it a family favorite for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
Scale
- 3–4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 lb)
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper; cook until golden brown and thoroughly cooked (6 minutes per side). Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute. Stir in Cajun seasoning for another minute.
- Pour in chicken broth followed by heavy cream; stir well and simmer until slightly thickened. Add grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and add it along with the penne pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 570
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: - For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Cajun seasoning for an hour before cooking. - Swap chicken for shrimp or add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for a different twist. - Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.