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Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

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  • Author: Molly Yeh
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Halal

Description

A rich and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken in a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce served over penne pasta. Perfect for a comforting dinner with a kick of spice.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1/2 onion, sliced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. Season the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic, bell peppers, and onion until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
  5. Reduce heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well. Let it simmer for a few minutes to combine flavors.
  7. Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and toss until fully coated.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Adjust the level of Cajun seasoning to your spice preference.
  • Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
  • Can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 720
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 42g
  • Saturated Fat: 20g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 1g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 38g
  • Cholesterol: 160mg