CAJUN CHICKEN PASTA

Sure! Here’s a full Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe along with a Q&A section to help with common questions.

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🍝 Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

📝 Ingredients

For the chicken:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• Salt & pepper to taste

For the pasta:

• 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta

• 2 tbsp butter

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced

• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced

• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1½ cups heavy cream

• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

• Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for heat

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🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta

1. Boil a pot of salted water and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry. Rub both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side or until internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C).

4. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

Step 3: Make the sauce

1. In the same skillet, add butter and 1 tbsp olive oil.

2. Sauté onions and bell peppers until tender (about 4–5 minutes).

3. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.

4. Pour in the heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and 1 tsp Cajun seasoning. Adjust seasoning to taste.

6. Let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened (about 3–5 minutes).

Step 4: Combine everything

1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce. Toss to coat.

2. Top with sliced chicken.

3. Garnish with parsley and red pepper flakes if desired.

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❓ Cajun Chicken Pasta – Q&A

Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?

A: Yes! Penne, linguine, rotini, or tagliatelle work well. Use what you have on hand.

Q: How can I make it less spicy?

A: Use less Cajun seasoning or choose a mild version. Avoid adding crushed red pepper flakes.

Q: Can I substitute the heavy cream?

A: Yes, use half-and-half for a lighter version or a mix of milk and cream cheese for creaminess. Note that the sauce may be thinner.

Q: What vegetables can I add?

A: Mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes work great.

Q: Can I make it dairy-free?

A: Use a plant-based cream (like coconut cream or oat cream) and a dairy-free Parmesan substitute.

Q: Can I make it ahead?

A: Yes, but it’s best fresh. If prepping ahead, keep the sauce and pasta separate until ready to serve.

Q: How do I reheat leftovers?

A: Reheat gently on the stove or microwave with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.