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Cajun Chicken Pasta

A quick and creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta that's savory and spicy, perfect for weeknight dinners.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 3 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Creole
Calories: 650

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 2 pieces chicken breasts, seasoned Pat dry and season just before cooking.
  • 8 oz pasta Cook until al dente.
  • 1 cup heavy cream Can be substituted with half-and-half plus a tablespoon of flour.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated Use fresh for best melt.
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Gives the dish its characteristic flavor.
  • 1 cup fresh tomatoes, diced Adds freshness to the dish.
  • 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped Can be substituted with basil.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Used to taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive oil for cooking Used for browning the chicken.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta until al dente; drain and set aside.
  2. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers.
  3. Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt, pepper, and the Cajun seasoning.
Cooking
  1. Add the chicken to the hot skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6–7 minutes per side.
  2. Remove the chicken to a plate and let it rest for five minutes before slicing.
  3. Pour the heavy cream into the same skillet and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up browned bits.
  4. Stir in the Parmesan until the sauce is smooth and glossy.
  5. Add the cooked pasta and diced tomatoes to the sauce, tossing to coat. If sauce is too thick, loosen it with a splash of reserved pasta water.
  6. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  7. Nestle the sliced chicken over the pasta, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

For a handheld twist, try the wrap idea with leftovers. Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days in the fridge. Not ideal for freezing, but portions can be frozen for up to 1 month if necessary.