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Sweet and Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Sweet and Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta
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Enjoy a creamy, spicy, and sweet Southern-inspired Sweet and Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta that’s ready in under 30 minutes. This quick and easy dish features tender chicken seasoned with bold Cajun spices, sweet bell peppers, and a luscious creamy Parmesan sauce tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests with a flavorful one-pot meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into bite-sized strips

Seasonings & Aromatics

  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, herbs)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Vegetables

  • 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup diced yellow bell pepper

Dairy & Pasta

  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated sharp Parmesan cheese
  • 8 ounces penne pasta

Oils & Others

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized strips and generously season them with Cajun seasoning to ensure every piece is packed with flavorful spice. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of pasta water, and set aside.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook until browned and cooked through, locking in the juiciness and flavor.
  4. Add Peppers and Cream: Add the diced red and yellow bell peppers to the skillet, sautéing until they soften slightly yet retain some crunch. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well to create a rich, creamy sauce base.
  5. Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and stir until melted and the sauce coats the pasta evenly. Adjust seasoning with salt or extra Cajun spice as desired. Use reserved pasta water if needed to reach preferred sauce consistency.
  6. Final Touches and Serve: Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley or green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while hot and creamy to impress your taste buds.

Notes

  • Use freshly ground black pepper and fresh Cajun seasoning for the best flavor.
  • Cook chicken just until done to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Save a bit of pasta water to adjust the sauce thickness as desired.
  • Gradually add cream to balance heat and maintain smooth sauce.
  • Choose sharp, aged Parmesan cheese for a richer sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta, spicy chicken pasta, creamy pasta, quick dinner, Cajun recipe, weeknight meal, Southern cuisine

Find it online: https://juliaglam.com/sweet-and-spicy-cajun-chicken-pasta/