Description
Indulge in this vibrant Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta, a comforting fusion dish that brings bold Southern heat to your dinner table. Featuring succulent spice-rubbed chicken and perfectly al dente penne coated in a velvety Parmesan cream sauce, this elegant meal is quick to prepare and guaranteed to satisfy those craving a restaurant-quality experience in the convenience of your own home.
Ingredients
8 oz penne pasta
1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tbsp olive oil
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Freshly chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
While the pasta cooks, coat the chicken strips evenly with the Cajun seasoning.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet, deglazing the pan by scraping up any browned bits from the chicken.
Simmer the cream until it starts to thicken slightly.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the smoothest sauce consistency as pre-shredded varieties contain anti-caking starches. Adjust the level of Cajun seasoning depending on your heat preference. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 145mg