Description

Spicy, creamy, and loaded with flavor! This Cajun Chicken Pasta features tender, blackened chicken, tossed in a creamy, garlic-infused Cajun sauce with perfectly cooked pasta. A restaurant-quality dish made easy at home!

Ingredients

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For the Chicken:

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Pasta & Sauce:

8 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
2 tbsp butter
1 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk (or more heavy cream for extra richness)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for more heat)
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup bell peppers, sliced (red, yellow, or green)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella (optional for extra creaminess)
Salt & pepper to taste

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Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season & Cook the Chicken: Coat chicken breasts with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (165°F internal temperature). Remove, let rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter and add olive oil. Sauté garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add bell peppers and cook for 2 minutes.
Add Cream & Cheese: Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Add Parmesan, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth and creamy.
Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and cherry tomatoes into the sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water or milk. Stir in shredded mozzarella (if using) for extra cheesiness.

Serve: Plate the pasta and top with sliced Cajun chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately

Notes

Protein Options: Swap chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a twist!
Spice Level: Adjust Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to control heat.
Make it Lighter: Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream.

Extra Flavor: Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pasta before serving for a fresh kick!