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Cajun Garlic Pasta

Cajun Garlic Pasta

Creamy, spicy Cajun Garlic Pasta ready in 30 minutes. A one-pan wonder with juicy chicken, garlic cream sauce, and easy custom swaps the whole family loves.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 12 oz rotini pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • to taste Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
  • optional Red pepper flakes for heat

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet 12-inch works best
  • Colander or strainer
  • Cutting board & sharp knife
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the rotini according to package directions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Toss the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes, then set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt butter, then sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up browned bits from the skillet.
  6. Let sauce simmer and thicken, then stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted.
  7. Add back the chicken and drained pasta into the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce.
  8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan.

Nutrition

Calories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 32gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 3gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 15mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Feel free to substitute chicken for shrimp or add vegetables like spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavors. The sauce can be adjusted by making a slurry for thickness or adding more cream to loosen it if too thick. This pasta is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to maintain creaminess.
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