Description
This creamy Cajun chicken pasta combines tender chicken, bold Cajun seasoning, and a luscious sauce for a flavorful and comforting dish.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 chicken breasts sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 oz penne pasta, cooked al dente
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup sliced bell peppers, 1/2 lb shrimp, or 1/2 cup andouille sausage slices
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, and drain the rest. Set the pasta aside.
- Season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add garlic and diced tomatoes. Sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Cook over medium heat until the cheese is melted, creating a creamy sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss to coat evenly.
- Adjust seasoning with additional Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper if needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For a seafood twist, substitute chicken with shrimp.
- Use low-fat cream cheese or half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Add bell peppers or andouille sausage for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove-top
- Cuisine: Cajun
Keywords: Creamy Cajun chicken pasta, Cajun pasta recipe, easy weeknight dinner, one-pot Cajun pasta, chicken Alfredo with Cajun seasoning.