Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
A delightful and comforting pasta dish with a rich, creamy sauce and a perfect blend of Cajun spices that the whole family will adore.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces penne pasta Hearty tubes that hold sauce well.
For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter Rich and creamy base.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Adds healthy fats.
- 1 cup diced white onion Aromatic and slightly sweet.
- 1 medium red bell pepper Seeded and diced for sweetness.
- 4 cloves garlic Minced for flavor enhancement.
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning Spicy blend for robust heat.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil Earthy note complementing flavors.
- 1 teaspoon paprika powder Adds color and smoky sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper Provides warmth and depth.
- 1 teaspoon salt Essential for flavor elevation.
- 0.25 teaspoon cayenne pepper Adjust according to taste.
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs Cut into bite-size pieces.
- 1 cup parmesan cheese Freshly shredded for best flavor.
- 1 cup heavy cream Silky for creamy consistency.
- 4 ounces cream cheese Room temp for easy mixing.
- 0.25 cup chicken broth Enhances moisture and flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve a cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and red bell pepper, sautéing until soft and translucent (4-5 minutes).
Cooking
- Add minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, dried basil, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes until spices bloom.
- Add cut-up chicken pieces to the skillet, cooking until browned and fully cooked (7-10 minutes). Avoid crowding the pan.
- Lower the heat, add heavy cream and cream cheese, stirring until cream cheese melts. Gradually add parmesan cheese and chicken broth, whisking until smooth.
- Combine cooked penne pasta with the sauce and chicken. If mixture is too thick, add reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Let flavors meld for 2-3 minutes on low heat and serve immediately, garnished with parsley or additional parmesan if desired.
Notes
Use freshly shredded parmesan for best results. Adjust cayenne pepper based on your preferred spice level. Always taste as you go for optimal flavor.