Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound (450g) of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for a dairy-free option
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces (225g) pasta (penne, fettuccine, or your favorite)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder (more if you like it spicier)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: red pepper flakes for extra spice
Instructions
- Start by seasoning the sliced chicken with Cajun seasoning. Ensure all pieces are well-coated for maximum flavor. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add your pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet used for the chicken, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Add smoked paprika, chili powder, red pepper flakes if using, and some salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken slightly, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together until well-coated with the spicy creamy sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
Notes
- For extra heat, sprinkle additional red pepper flakes.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or milk.
- For added flavor, stir in chopped sun-dried tomatoes or fresh spinach.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Dairy-Free Option Available
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 550 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 125mg