Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Ready in Just 30 Minutes
Enjoy a quick and delightful Cajun Chicken Pasta that’s creamy and flavorful, perfect for busy weeknights.
Equipment
- - Large skillet
- Pot
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 9 oz Pasta (bows) You can substitute with penne or rigatoni.
For the Chicken
- 3 large Chicken breasts, cut into chunks Cut to even sizes for consistent cooking.
For the Veggies
- 1 Red Bell Pepper, sliced Can substitute with green bell pepper.
- 1 Yellow Bell Pepper, sliced Any color bell pepper can be used.
- 1/2 small Yellow Onion, finely diced Sweet onion can be a substitute.
For the Sauce
- 4 tbsp Butter Using Kerrygold improves the flavor.
- 3 tsp Minced Garlic Avoid overcooking to prevent burning.
- 4 tsp Cajun Seasoning Adjust for heat preference.
- 3/4 tsp Salt Adjust based on personal taste.
- 3/4 tsp Black Pepper Freshly ground is preferred.
- 4 oz Cream Cheese, softened Can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- 1 1/4 cups Milk Chicken broth is a great substitute.
- 1 cup Parmesan, freshly grated Opt for freshly grated for optimal melting.
Instructions
Cooking Instructions
- Prepare ingredients: Cut the chicken into even chunks, slice the bell peppers, finely dice the onion, mince the garlic, and grate the parmesan.
- Boil pasta: Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it's al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté garlic: Melt the butter over medium-high heat, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds.
- Cook onions: Add the finely diced onion, cooking for 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
- Add chicken: Introduce the chicken chunks to the skillet, cooking for 2-3 minutes until the edges turn golden brown.
- Incorporate veggies and seasonings: Add sliced bell peppers, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sauté another 3-4 minutes.
- Make the sauce: Reduce heat and pour in the milk, gradually stirring in the softened cream cheese until melted and smooth.
- Combine pasta: Fold in the cooked pasta until coated, adjusting with reserved pasta water if too thick.
- Finalize seasonings: Taste and adjust seasonings before serving warm.
Notes
Optional: Garnish with extra grated parmesan and parsley for color.