Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta
A creamy, spicy pasta dish featuring Cajun-seasoned chicken, rich Parmesan cream sauce, and penne. Ready in 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights.
Equipment
- - Large pot
- - Skillet or sauté pan
- - Tongs or spoon
- Knife and cutting board
Ingredients
- - 8 oz penne pasta
- - 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- - 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- - 2 cups heavy cream
- - 1 tablespoon olive oil
- - 1 clove garlic minced
- - 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- - Salt and pepper to taste
- - Fresh parsley chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Toss chicken slices with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook 6–8 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Lower heat to medium. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan until melted and smooth.
- Return chicken and pasta to skillet. Toss everything together until creamy.
- Garnish with parsley and extra cheese. Serve hot.
Notes
- Add sautéed veggies for extra nutrition.
- Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth.
- Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth.