Cajun Chicken Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Garlic Sauce is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a creamy, zesty sauce and pasta. This dish is perfect for a comforting dinner and is sure to impress your family and friends!
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Creamy Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Timing
Making Cajun Chicken Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Garlic Sauce takes about 15 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking.
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Melt Butter: In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
- Slice Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta.
- Garnish: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Cajun Chicken Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Garlic Sauce (per serving, based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 540 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Fat | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Sugar | 2g |
Tips for Customization
- Add Vegetables: Include bell peppers, spinach, or broccoli for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to control the spice level according to your preference.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or gouda for a unique flavor.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Conclusion
Cajun Chicken Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Garlic Sauce is a satisfying and delicious dish that brings bold flavors to your table. It’s easy to prepare and perfect for any night of the week!
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, linguine, or rotini.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
Cajun Chicken Pasta in Creamy Parmesan Garlic Sauce Recipe
Ingredients
- For the Chicken:
- • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- • Salt and pepper, to taste
- • 1 tablespoon olive oil
- For the Pasta:
- • 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
- • 1 tablespoon butter
- For the Creamy Sauce:
- • 3 tablespoons butter
- • 4 cloves garlic, minced
- • 1 cup heavy cream
- • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- • Salt and pepper, to taste
- • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
- Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
- Season Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper on both sides.
- Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Remove from the skillet and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Melt Butter: In the same skillet, add 3 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Add Cream: Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and stir in the Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
- Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water, a little at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly.
- Slice Chicken: Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta.
- Garnish: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
