Lighter Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
This recipe is gonna change your weeknight game. Quick, comforting, and flavorful with a touch of spice from cajun seasoning, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again.
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Large skillet
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 pound short-cut pasta pick something like penne or rigatoni that grabs sauce
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil helps get that golden brown chicken
- 1 pound chicken tenders cut into bite size pieces, cooks fast and stays tender
- 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning adds the signature flavor punch
- kosher salt and black pepper just basic but necessary to bring out everything
- 1 medium yellow onion chopped, gives sweetness and texture to the dish
- 2 bell peppers chopped, use red and green for a colorful mix
- 3 cloves garlic finely chopped or grated, adds sharp garlicky kick
- crushed red pepper flakes optional if you want that extra heat
- 1 cup low sodium chicken broth keeps the sauce flavorful without too much salt
- 1 cup milk makes the cream sauce lighter but still luscious
- 2 ounces cream cheese at room temperature, melts smooth and creamy in the sauce
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese for sharp cheesy note that brings the whole thing together
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh basil freshest herb to sprinkle before serving
Instructions
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta al dente, according to package directions. Drain.
- In the same pot set over medium-high heat, add 2 tablespoons olive oil, the onion, chicken, and 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning. Cook until browned all over, about 5 minutes. Spoon the chicken onto a plate.
- To the pot, add 2 tablespoons olive oil, the bell peppers, and garlic. Cook another 5 minutes until the peppers are soft. Stir in 1-2 teaspoons cajun seasoning. Add a pinch each of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook another minute, until the spices are fragrant, then pour in the broth and milk. Add the cream cheese. Whisk until smooth. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook 5 minutes, until thickened slightly.
- Stir in the parmesan. Then toss in the pasta and chicken and cook 2-3 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in the basil. Serve immediately topped with additional basil. Enjoy!
Notes
Quick release after pressure cooking to avoid overcooking chicken and pasta. Swap chicken with mushrooms or tofu for a vegetarian version.