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creamy cajun chicken pasta
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Cajun Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta combines tender penne pasta, sauteed bell peppers, and chicken smothered in a smoky, garlicky, well-seasoned, creamy sauce. It has a kick of heat, but the spice level can be easily adjusted to your liking.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, cajun
Servings: 4 servings
Author: Mallory Austin

Ingredients

  • 12 oz dry penne pasta
  • 3 chicken breasts
  • 3-4 tablespoons cajun seasoning* see notes below for my homemade recipe
  • 6 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 red onion sliced thin
  • 1 red bell pepper sliced thin
  • 1 green bell pepper sliced thin
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Monterey jack cheese shredded
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Prep the chicken by pounding to a 1/4 inch even thickness. Drizzle over a little olive oil and rub chicken breasts so they are evenly coated. Liberally season with cajun seasoning on both sides.
  • Heat a large, deep skillet to medium heat. Add in 1 tablespoon olive oil. Cook the chicken, flipping only once, about 4 minutes per side (or until it's cooked through). Set aside under tented foil.
  • In the same skillet, still over medium heat, add 1 more tablespoon olive oil. Add the garlic, onions, and peppers. Cook for 7-8 minutes or until they soften, tossing frequently. Scrape up the brown bits on the bottom of the pan as they cook.
  • Sprinkle over 1 tablespoon of cajun seasoning and combine it with the onion mixture. Reduce heat to low.
  • Bring a large pot of water to a boil and cook the penne pasta to al dente according to the package instructions.
  • Slowly pour in the milk and heavy cream over the onion mixture and bring to a low simmering boil, cooking for 5-7 minutes allowing it to thicken. Taste and adjust the seasoning, likely adding up to one additional tablespoon of cajun seasoning and a little salt and pepper to taste.
  • Add the cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce.
  • Slice up the chicken and place it on top of the pasta. Serve immediately.

Notes

Homemade Cajun Seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • ¾ teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon brown sugar
  • ¾ teaspoon cayenne pepper, add more if you like heat
  • ¼ teaspoon cracked pepper, to taste

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 641kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 34g | Fat: 17g | Sodium: 757mg | Fiber: 4g