Description
This Cajun Chicken Pasta Skillet is a quick and flavorful one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender diced chicken breast seasoned with bold Cajun spices is sautéed with vibrant bell peppers and onions, then simmered in a creamy sauce made from chicken broth, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Tossed with perfectly cooked penne pasta, this dish combines spicy, creamy, and cheesy elements for a comforting and satisfying dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
Sauce
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Prepare the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to be added later to the skillet.
- Sauté Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast seasoned with Cajun seasoning. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and fully cooked through.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the sliced bell pepper and chopped onion to the skillet with the chicken. Continue to sauté until the vegetables become tender and softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will help meld the flavors and slightly reduce the liquid.
- Add Cream: Stir in the heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and well combined with the broth and vegetables.
- Combine Pasta and Cheese: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet. Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir thoroughly until the cheese melts and coats the pasta and sauce evenly.
- Season: Taste the sauce and season with salt and black pepper as desired to enhance the flavors.
- Serve: Serve the Cajun chicken pasta hot, garnished if desired with additional cheese or fresh herbs for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for best melting and flavor.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative.
- Ensure not to overcook the pasta since it will cook a little more when combined with the sauce.
- Add a splash of white wine with the chicken broth for a deeper flavor if desired.
