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Quick and Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Close-up of creamy cajun chicken pasta featuring penne coated in orange sauce and topped with seasoned chicken pieces and parsley.
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Make restaurant-style Cajun Chicken Pasta at home quickly. This recipe focuses on a rich, creamy sauce and bold Cajun spice, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

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  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
  • 8 ounces penne pasta
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and cayenne pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
  3. Add the penne pasta and chicken broth to the same skillet. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook according to pasta package directions, stirring occasionally until the pasta is nearly tender (about 10 minutes). Add a splash more broth if the pasta seems dry.
  4. Stir in the heavy cream and cubed cream cheese until the cream cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Heat through for 1 to 2 minutes. Do not boil after adding dairy.
  6. Serve immediately topped with fresh parsley.

Notes

  • For a gluten-free version, substitute the penne pasta with your preferred gluten-free pasta shape.
  • You can substitute shrimp for chicken for a variation.
  • If you want more heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a dash of hot sauce to the finished sauce.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbycarla.com/cajun-chicken-pasta-quick-creamy-recipe/