Description
A comforting, spicy, and creamy pasta dish made with seared Cajun-seasoned chicken, tender pasta, and a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or dinner parties alike.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 8 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Slice chicken breasts into thin cutlets or strips. Season thoroughly with Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Cook pasta in salted water until just under al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds.
- Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until melted and smooth. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Simmer together for 1–2 minutes.
- Slice the chicken and return it to the pan or place on top of pasta. Garnish with parsley if using.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes