# Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Indulge in a hearty bowl of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta! Bursting with zesty Cajun flavors, tender chicken, and a deliciously creamy sauce—this is a pasta dish that is sure to satisfy.
The total time needed for this delectable dinner is approximately 45 minutes, with 15 minutes dedicated to preparing the ingredients and 30 minutes utilized for the cooking process.
## Why Make this Recipe
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta introduces a thrilling twist on your regular pasta dinners. Not only does it offer a satisfying combination of textures—from the tender penne pasta to the hearty slices of chicken—it also provides a spicy adventure for your palate with its Cajun seasoning.
## How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Creating this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is as simple as it is rewarding. This section will break down the ingredients you need and the steps you should follow.
## Ingredients
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 bell pepper (sliced)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
– 3 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
## Directions
1. Cook the Pasta: To achieve al dente penne pasta, simply follow the instructions on the package. Once it’s cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Season the Chicken: Coat the chicken breasts evenly with Cajun seasoning. Be sure to press it gently, helping the seasoning to adhere to the chicken.
3. Cook the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. The chicken breasts then join the party. Cook them for 6-7 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown complexion and a fully cooked center. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the pan and allow it to rest before slicing it into strips.
4. Sauté Veggies: Using the same pan, add the bell pepper slices and cherry tomatoes. Give them 3-4 minutes to soften up.
5. Create the Sauce: Now, it’s time for the minced garlic. Add it to the pan and cook until it emits a fragrance. Afterwards, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir the ingredients and let the mixture simmer gently.
6. Combine All Ingredients: You can now add the cooked pasta into the pan. Mix it well, ensuring it’s coated evenly with the sauce. Mix in the Parmesan cheese. Once it’s melted, the sauce will reveal a creamy texture. You can then return the sliced chicken into the mix.
7. Garnish and Serve: Taste the dish and season it with salt and pepper according to your preference. Top it off with some fresh parsley and even some extra Parmesan cheese if you fancy.
Enjoy your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, a dish that brings the delightful warmth of Cajun cuisine into your home!
## How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
This pasta dish is best served hot, straight out of the pan. Pair it with some garlic bread or a refreshing side salad for a balanced meal. To complement the spicy Cajun flavors, consider a chilled glass of sweet white wine or a creamy ale.
## How to Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to revive the creaminess of the sauce.
## Tips to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
1. Adjust the heat: Control the spiciness of your dish by adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning.
2. Make it vegetarian: For a vegetarian variation, substitute the chicken with tofu or mushrooms.
3. Pasta choices: Penne pasta works perfectly for this recipe. However, rigatoni or fettuccine are also great options.
## FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! This dish works great with other pasta such as rigatoni, fettuccine, or even spaghetti.
Q: Can I add other vegetables?
A: Yes, you can always enhance the dish with other veggies like broccoli, spinach, or asparagus.
Q: Is it spicy?
A: The Cajun seasoning does add a level of spice to this dish. However, you can manage the heat level by reducing or increasing the amount of seasoning used.