Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Skillet

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to warm your heart and soul with something rich, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying? Today, we’re diving into a dish that feels like a hug in every bite — the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Skillet. 🍲🍗✨

This recipe brings together the best of both worlds: the smoky, spicy kick of Cajun seasoning with the smooth comfort of a velvety cream sauce. Traditionally, Cajun cooking has its roots in Louisiana, blending French, Spanish, and Southern influences. The bold spices are balanced with wholesome ingredients, and when paired with tender pasta, it becomes the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table go quiet — except for the clinking of forks.

What’s wonderful about this dish is how versatile it is. You can make it as mild or as spicy as you like, depending on your family’s taste. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a one-skillet wonder, which means fewer dishes to clean (we love that, don’t we? 😉).

So grab your skillet, gather your spices, and let’s cook up a delicious dinner that will leave you feeling full, happy, and comforted.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken & Pasta:

• 2 large chicken breasts, thinly sliced
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 12 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped 🌿
• Extra Parmesan for serving 🧀

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the chicken: In a bowl, toss sliced chicken with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
3. Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
4. Build the flavor base: In the same skillet, melt butter. Add onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
5. Create the creamy sauce: Pour in chicken broth and stir, scraping up browned bits from the bottom. Reduce heat to medium, then add heavy cream, smoked paprika, and Parmesan. Stir until the sauce thickens slightly, about 3–4 minutes.
6. Combine pasta & chicken: Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss well to coat everything in the creamy Cajun sauce. If the sauce is too thick, splash in a bit of reserved pasta water.
7. Final touch: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun spice. Sprinkle with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

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Nutritional Information

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Cooking Time: 25 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 40 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: ~520 | 🍽️ Servings: 4

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#cajunchickenpasta #comfortfood #onepotmeals #homemadegoodness #spicyandcreamy

Bon appétit and happy cooking! 👩🍳🍽️