Description
Spicy Cajun chicken pasta in rich cream sauce with peppers and parmesan delivers bold flavors and tender bites for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast, sliced into 1-inch strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 1 medium red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne according to package until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken strips with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook 5-6 minutes until browned and reaches 165°F internal temperature. Remove to a plate.
- Add remaining olive oil to skillet.
- Sauté bell peppers and onion for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.
- Sprinkle remaining Cajun seasoning over vegetables and stir 30 seconds.
- Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook 3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked pasta and chicken to sauce. Toss to coat and heat 2 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- Cook chicken to 165°F internal temperature for food safety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun