Ingredients:
For the Cajun Seasoning:
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste for spice level)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the Cajun Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound), cut into bite-sized strips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (from above)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces linguine or fettuccine
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
In a small bowl, combine all the Cajun seasoning ingredients: paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, season the chicken breast strips with 2 tablespoons of the Cajun seasoning. Toss to coat the chicken evenly.
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side or until they are cooked through and have a nice Cajun spice crust. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sliced red and green bell peppers. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook for about 5 minutes to let the sauce thicken slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and let it melt into the sauce. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the spice level by adding more Cajun seasoning if desired.
Return the cooked Cajun chicken strips to the skillet and let them simmer in the sauce for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together to coat the pasta and chicken with the creamy Cajun sauce.
Serve your Cajun Chicken Pasta hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley if desired.
Enjoy this flavorful and comforting pasta dish with a Cajun twist!
This Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delicious fusion of spicy Cajun flavors with creamy pasta, making it a perfect choice for a comforting and satisfying meal.