Description
A flavorful and comforting dish that combines creamy sauce with bold Cajun spices, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 12 oz penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti
- Salt, for pasta water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh lemon juice (optional)
- Sautéed vegetables (optional)
- Shrimp (optional)
Instructions
- Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing.
- Boil salted water and cook pasta until al dente, then reserve ½ cup pasta water and drain.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat, add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, then mix in heavy cream and chicken broth. Let simmer until thickened, then add Parmesan and stir until smooth.
- Add pasta and sliced chicken to the sauce, mixing until well combined. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water and season with lemon juice and red pepper flakes if desired.
Notes
For a healthier variation, consider adding sautéed vegetables or substituting chicken with shrimp.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun