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Chilis Cajun Chicken Pasta

Chilis Cajun Chicken Pasta That's Better Than the Restaurant

This Chilis Cajun Chicken Pasta is a quick, one-pan meal full of bold flavors and creamy comfort, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun-American
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 pieces Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts Pound to ¾-inch thickness for even cooking.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Can substitute with canola oil if needed.
For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta You can swap with your favorite pasta type.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream A lighter option can be used, but it might alter the final texture.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian-friendly version.
  • ½ cup Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese Fresh cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Freshly minced for optimal flavor infusion.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to your taste preferences.
For the Cajun Spice Blend
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika Delivers color and a smoky flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder Boosts the garlic flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder Adds a touch of sweetness and depth.
  • 1 teaspoon Oregano A must for herbal complexity.
  • 1 teaspoon Thyme Feel free to adjust based on your own herb garden!
  • ½ teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust the quantities based on your spice tolerance.
  • ½ teaspoon Cayenne Pepper Adjust the quantities based on your spice tolerance.
  • ½ teaspoon White Pepper Adjust the quantities based on your spice tolerance.

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Pot
  • mixing bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chilis Cajun Chicken Pasta
  1. In a small bowl, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and white pepper. Mix well to create a Cajun spice blend.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half of the Cajun spice mixture and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chicken, seasoning with the remaining spice blend. Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown, then remove from skillet.
  3. In the same skillet, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and reserve the skillet.
  4. With the skillet still on low heat, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
  5. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and evenly combined. Return chicken to the skillet, coating it with the sauce.
  6. Gently fold the drained penne pasta into the chicken and sauce mixture. Heat through for 1-2 minutes on low. Plate warm and enjoy.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Bloom the Cajun spice mix in hot oil for a richer taste. Ensure chicken is pounded to ¾-inch thickness for even cooking.

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