Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

Ingredients:

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For the Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. Cook the Penne
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions (about 10-12 minutes). Reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside.

2. Season and Cook the Chicken
   Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Sprinkle both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
   Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

3. Make the Sauce
   In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
   Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
   Stir in the Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Simmer for 3-5 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly.

4. Combine Pasta and Sauce
   Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly, adding a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.

5. Add the Chicken
   Return the sliced chicken to the skillet, stirring to incorporate it into the pasta and sauce. Let everything heat through for 1-2 minutes.

6. Serve
   Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes:

• Use a Hot Skillet: Ensure the skillet is hot when cooking the chicken to get a good sear and keep the chicken juicy.
• Save Pasta Water: The reserved pasta water helps the sauce stick to the pasta for a creamier result.

Enjoy your Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta—creamy, spicy, and absolutely delicious!