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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

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A bold and creamy Cajun chicken pasta dish that’s quick to make and full of flavor.

Ingredients

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  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 12 oz pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti)
  • Salt, for the pasta water
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (for the sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  • Fresh lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and rub both sides with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, plus salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the breasts 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Internal temperature should reach 165°F. Transfer to a cutting board to rest, then slice thinly.
  2. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.
  3. Make the Cajun cream sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning and the smoked paprika, toasting briefly to bloom the spices. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the pan. Reduce slightly, then add the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce thickens a little.
  4. Combine the pasta, chicken, and sauce: Lower the heat, stir in the Parmesan until melted, then add the drained pasta and sliced chicken. Toss gently to coat, adding reserved pasta water a splash at a time if you need to loosen the sauce. Finish with a squeeze of lemon, chopped parsley, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.

Notes

Serve hot with extra Parmesan and a wedge of lemon. Pairs well with salad or garlic bread.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.simplefamilydishes.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-pasta-5/