Description
A creamy, spicy one-pan Cajun chicken pasta loaded with tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and rich flavor—perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Instructions
1. Season the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning until well coated.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked, then remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the onion and bell peppers for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
6. Bring to a simmer, then add penne pasta. Cover and cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well.
8. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
9. Garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan before serving.
Notes
This one-pan meal is great for busy weeknights with minimal cleanup.
Add extra Cajun seasoning or hot sauce for more heat.
You can substitute any pasta shape, adjusting cooking time as needed.
Add vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for extra nutrition.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg