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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

A flavorful and comforting dish combining tender chicken, a rich cream sauce, and zesty Cajun spices, all tossed with pasta for a complete meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Southern
Calories: 680
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 lb Chicken Breast Lean protein that absorbs flavors well.
  • 8 oz Fettuccine or Penne Pasta Provides a nice base for the sauce.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Adds richness to the sauce.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Enhances flavor with saltiness.
Seasonings
  • 2 tbsp Cajun Spice Mix Key for flavor and heat.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Freshly minced for aroma.
  • to taste Salt Essential for flavor.
  • to taste Black Pepper Essential for flavor.
Optional Add-Ins
  • 1 cup Bell Peppers Adds color and crunch.
  • 1 cup Spinach Adds greens and color contrast.
  • 1 cup Mushrooms Adds earthiness.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
  2. While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breast generously with salt, pepper, and Cajun spice mix.
Cooking
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove from skillet and let it rest before slicing.
  2. In the same skillet, add more oil if needed, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
  3. Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  4. Add cooked pasta, sliced chicken, and a bit of reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss until well combined.
  5. Adjust the consistency with more pasta water if needed. Add optional ingredients like spinach or bell peppers to wilt slightly.
Serving
  1. Plate the creamy Cajun chicken pasta, garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning, if desired.

Notes

Great for meal prep! Can be made ahead and stored. Use leftover pasta water for better sauce coating.