Description
A bold, creamy, and smoky Cajun chicken pasta dish made entirely in one pot for minimal cleanup. The chicken is flavorful and juicy, nestled in a rich cheese sauce with tender penne, all spiced with Cajun seasoning and paprika. Ready in 30 minutes for any hearty family meal.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-size pieces
1 lb penne pasta
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tbsp smoked paprika
½ tsp cayenne pepper
1 cup heavy cream or non-dairy milk alternative
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cups chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Heat a large pot over medium heat and add a small amount of oil
Sauté chicken until golden and cooked through
Stir in Cajun seasoning, garlic, smoked paprika, and cayenne until fragrant
Add penne pasta, 2 cups chicken broth, and bring to a boil
Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer, covered, for 12-15 minutes until pasta is tender and broth is absorbed
Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until sauce thickens
Season with additional salt and pepper if needed
Notes
Substitute chicken thighs for a richer flavor
Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version
Add chopped collard greens or sautéed mushrooms for extra texture
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
Reheat gently on the stove or microwave
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: dinner
- Method: One-Pot Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg