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Flavorful Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Penne Pasta

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A creamy and spicy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with penne pasta that combines bold Cajun seasoning with a rich Alfredo sauce for a comforting and easy-to-make meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound / 450g), sliced into strips
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • A pinch of smoked paprika (optional)
  • 12 ounces (340g) penne pasta
  • Chopped fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
  • Extra Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 12 ounces of penne pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 11-13 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
  2. Slice chicken breasts into strips and toss with 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
  3. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken strips in a single layer for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature 165°F). Remove chicken and set aside.
  4. Reduce heat to medium and melt 3 tablespoons unsalted butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Slowly pour in 2 cups heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  6. Add 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, a pinch of smoked paprika (optional), salt, and black pepper to taste. Stir until cheese melts and sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if sauce is too thick.
  7. Return cooked Cajun chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in Alfredo sauce. Add cooked penne pasta and stir to combine. Heat together for 2 minutes.
  8. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove from heat and garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil and extra Parmesan cheese before serving.

Notes

Do not overcook the chicken to keep it tender. Use freshly grated Parmesan for best sauce texture. Simmer sauce gently to avoid curdling. Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Cooking chicken in batches ensures a good sear.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken, Alfredo sauce, penne pasta, creamy pasta, spicy chicken, easy dinner, comfort food

Find it online: https://tomyumy.com/flavorful-cajun-chicken-alfredo-with-penne-pasta-easy-homemade-recipe/