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–+ servings

Creamy Cajun Chicken

Discover the perfect blend of Italian and Cajun flavors in this Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne with Mozzarella Sauce. Easy to make and customizable, it's a hit for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 670
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 medium chicken breasts, sliced into thick strips
  • 10 oz penne pasta
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • ¼ tsp smoked paprika
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 3 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ¼ tsp Italian seasoning
  • to taste Chopped parsley, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Colander
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Pat the chicken dry and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. In a skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  3. Lower heat to medium, melt the remaining butter in the skillet, add minced garlic, and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to loosen browned bits. Bring to a simmer, then add Velveeta and cream cheese, stirring until smooth. Gradually add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until well combined. Adjust seasoning with Italian seasoning and more Cajun seasoning as desired.
  5. Add the cooked penne to the sauce, toss to coat. If thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Return chicken to the skillet, warm together, and serve garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan.

Nutrition

Calories: 670kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 36gFat: 40gSaturated Fat: 23gCholesterol: 155mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 750mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 900IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 400mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish is versatile; customize with extra Cajun seasoning for more heat or substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variety. For leftovers, store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; add cream when reheating to keep the sauce creamy. Feel free to add colorful vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.
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