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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

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A delicious creamy Cajun chicken pasta that combines flavorful spices with a rich sauce, perfect for an impressive dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 8 ounces penne or fettuccine pasta
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne or fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
  2. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder until evenly coated.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce slightly thickens.
  6. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet. Toss them to coat everything in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
  7. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

For added texture, consider adding sun-dried tomatoes or spinach while cooking. Taste as you go to ensure perfect seasoning.

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