Description
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe is a quick and flavorful dinner ready in just 35 minutes. Packed with juicy Cajun-spiced chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce, it’s a perfect weeknight meal with bold, comforting flavors. Customize the spice level and enjoy this one-skillet pasta dish that’s both satisfying and simple to clean up.
Ingredients
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2 boneless, skinless chicken fillets (about 1 lb total)
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2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 cup heavy cream
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup chicken broth
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1 red bell pepper, sliced
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1 green bell pepper, sliced
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1 small onion, sliced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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8 ounces penne pasta (or another short pasta)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain (don’t rinse).
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Season chicken with Cajun seasoning.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Cook chicken 6–7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and let rest; slice into strips.
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In the same skillet, sauté onion and bell peppers for about 3 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
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Pour in cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan. Simmer for 3–4 minutes, stirring constantly, until slightly thickened.
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Return chicken and pasta to skillet. Toss to coat evenly in sauce. Adjust salt and pepper.
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Serve immediately. Garnish with extra Parmesan or parsley if desired.
Notes
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Adjust spice by increasing or decreasing Cajun seasoning.
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Substitute shrimp or sausage for chicken.
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Add mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes for variety.
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Use gluten-free or whole-wheat pasta as needed.
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To lighten the sauce, use half-and-half instead of cream.
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Store leftovers up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.
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Not ideal for freezing due to the cream base.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One-Pan, Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
