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Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

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  • Author: simplemealsbykim
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Lactose

Description

A rich and flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce, and penne pasta, perfect for a hearty dinner.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add garlic and bell peppers. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until tender.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
  6. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
  8. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well combined.
  9. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

Notes

  • Adjust the Cajun seasoning to control the spice level.
  • For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
  • You can add mushrooms or spinach for extra vegetables.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 plate
  • Calories: 620
  • Sugar: 4g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg