Spicy Cajun Chicken Alfredo (Print Version)
# Ingredients:
→ Cajun Seasoning
01 -
2 teaspoons paprika
02 -
1 teaspoon garlic powder
03 -
1 teaspoon onion powder
04 -
1 teaspoon dried oregano
05 -
1 teaspoon dried thyme
06 -
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
07 -
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
08 -
1/2 teaspoon salt
→ Main Ingredients
09 -
10.5 ounces penne pasta
10 -
2 tablespoons olive oil
11 -
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
12 -
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
13 -
1 small onion, finely diced (about 1/2 cup)
14 -
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
15 -
1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced (about 1 cup)
16 -
2 cloves garlic, minced
17 -
1 cup heavy cream
18 -
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
19 -
Salt, to taste
20 -
Black pepper, to taste
→ To Serve (Optional)
21 -
Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
22 -
Additional grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, and salt in a small bowl. Set aside.
02 -
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Salt the water generously, add penne, and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
03 -
Season sliced chicken breasts with 1 1/2 teaspoons of the prepared Cajun seasoning.
04 -
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.
05 -
In the same skillet, add diced onion and sliced red and green bell peppers. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
06 -
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in remaining Cajun seasoning.
07 -
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cream thickens slightly.
08 -
Return cooked chicken and add cooked penne to the skillet. Mix well to ensure pasta and chicken are coated in the creamy sauce. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until fully combined.
09 -
Taste and adjust with additional salt and black pepper if needed. Divide among bowls and garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
# Notes:
01 -
To intensify the smoky flavor, lightly toast the Cajun seasoning in a dry pan before using.
02 -
Use freshly grated Parmesan for optimal melting and flavor.