Name: Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 12 oz penne pasta; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1/2 tsp paprika; 1/2 tsp garlic powder; 1/2 tsp onion powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Description

Indulge in the delightful Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta, a dish that brings together tender chicken strips and perfectly cooked penne pasta enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce infused with zesty Cajun spices. This recipe is not only quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes—but is also versatile enough for family dinners or special occasions. The combination of rich flavors and comforting textures makes it an irresistible choice for those busy weeknights when you crave something satisfying and delicious.

Ingredients

Scale

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
12 oz penne pasta
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp butter
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic. Add heavy cream and chicken broth; simmer until slightly thickened.
Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella until melted into a creamy sauce.
Toss cooked pasta with the sauce and add the chicken back in. Mix well.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Skillet
Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
Calories: 670
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 890mg
Fat: 35g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 39g
Cholesterol: 140mg

Keywords: For added nutrition and color, consider incorporating bell peppers or spinach into the dish. Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste.