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**Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: A Bold, Flavorful Dish That Hits All the Right Notes**
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a gathering, or just need a delicious weeknight meal, this **Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta** is guaranteed to impress.
### Ingredients You’ll Need
#### For the Cajun Chicken:
– **2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts** (or thighs, if preferred)
– **2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning** (store-bought or homemade)
– **1 teaspoon paprika**
– **½ teaspoon garlic powder**
– **Salt and pepper** (to taste)
– **1 tablespoon olive oil** (for cooking)
– **1 tablespoon butter** (for added richness)
#### For the Creamy Sauce:
– **1 tablespoon olive oil** (or butter)
– **3 cloves garlic** (minced)
– **1 cup heavy cream** (for a rich, creamy base)
– **1 cup chicken broth** (to thin out the sauce and add flavor)
– **1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning** (or more, depending on your spice preference)
– **½ teaspoon smoked paprika** (adds a smoky depth)
– **1 teaspoon Italian seasoning** (optional, for an herby note)
– **1 cup grated Parmesan cheese** (adds creaminess and a salty, savory kick)
– **Fresh parsley or green onions** (for garnish)
– **Salt and pepper** (to taste)
### Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Next, heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to rest.
#### Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
In the same skillet used to cook the chicken, add a tablespoon of olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let it reduce for a couple of minutes to intensify the flavor. Then, slowly add the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning (if using), adjusting the amount based on how spicy you want the sauce. Allow the sauce to simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until it thickens and becomes creamy.
#### Step 5: Slice the Chicken
While the pasta is being coated in the sauce, slice the cooked chicken breasts into thin strips. Place the chicken on top of the pasta and stir gently to combine, or serve the chicken on the side if you prefer a more visually appealing presentation.
#### Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Once the chicken is mixed in with the pasta and sauce, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt into the sauce and create a velvety, rich texture. Taste the dish and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning if needed.