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–+ servings
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta served in a bowl with herbs and spices.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

A delightful and quick dish combining South flavors with pasta, featuring a creamy Cajun sauce over chicken and pasta.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 620
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the chicken
  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts Can substitute with shrimp for a different protein.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For searing the chicken.
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Plus more for flavor.
  • Salt and pepper to taste For seasoning the chicken.
For the pasta
  • 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti Pasta of your choice.
  • Salt for the pasta water To season the boiling water.
For the sauce
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter For sautéing.
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced Adds flavor to the sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika For enhanced flavor.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter option.
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth For the sauce base.
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese For adding richness to the sauce.
Optional Garnishes
  • Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.
  • Red pepper flakes For an extra kick.
  • Fresh lemon juice To brighten the dish.
  • Sautéed vegetables Can customize with your favorites.
  • Shrimp Optional substitution for chicken.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry and season with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 4-6 minutes on each side until cooked through.
  3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
Cooking the Pasta
  1. In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
  2. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining.
Making the Sauce
  1. In the same skillet, lower the heat, melt butter, and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant.
  2. Stir in additional Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, pouring in the chicken broth and bringing it to a gentle simmer.
  3. Stir in heavy cream and let simmer until slightly thickened.
  4. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted; adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if desired.
Combining
  1. Toss in cooked pasta and sliced chicken, mixing until well-coated.
  2. Finish with a squirt of lemon juice and chopped parsley, serving immediately. Garnish if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1Calories: 620kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 44gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 780mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2g

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat using medium heat while adding chicken broth or cream to maintain creaminess.

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