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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.4 from 145 reviews

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a deliciously rich and flavorful dish featuring tender, spiced chicken breasts served atop al dente fettuccine tossed in a luscious creamy Parmesan sauce with hints of garlic, smoked paprika, and fresh parsley. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner with a spicy kick and smooth, indulgent textures.

Ingredients

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Chicken and Seasoning

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Pasta

  • 8 ounces fettuccine pasta

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice

Instructions

  1. Prepare the skillet and season chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Meanwhile, season both sides of the chicken breasts evenly with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper for a robust flavor profile.
  2. Cook the chicken: Once the oil is hot, place the chicken breasts in the skillet and cook for 6 to 7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove the chicken and place it on a cutting board to rest for a few minutes, allowing juices to redistribute.
  3. Sauté garlic and make sauce base: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant and lightly golden, which enhances the sauce’s depth of flavor.
  4. Add liquids and simmer: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3 to 4 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and blend flavors.
  5. Melt the cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it fully melts, resulting in a smooth, creamy sauce that coats the pasta beautifully.
  6. Cook the pasta: While the sauce simmers, cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water for adjusting sauce consistency if needed.
  7. Slice the chicken: Slice the rested chicken breasts into thin strips for easy mixing and serving.
  8. Combine pasta and sauce: Add the drained fettuccine to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing well to coat all noodles evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water, a tablespoon at a time, until the desired creaminess is achieved.
  9. Finish the dish: Stir in chopped fresh parsley and lemon juice for brightness and freshness. Top with sliced chicken and toss gently to combine and heat through.
  10. Serve: Plate the creamy Cajun chicken pasta immediately, garnished with extra parsley if desired, to enjoy warm and full of flavor.

Notes

  • For a spicier dish, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
  • Letting the chicken rest after cooking ensures juicier, more tender slices.
  • Reserved pasta water is useful for adjusting sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
  • This recipe pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Find it online: https://cookedbyclara.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-pasta-recipe/