Spicy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Penne

Spicy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Penne ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 12 oz penne pasta
• 0.25 cup unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 medium red bell pepper
• 1 medium green bell pepper
• 0.5 medium yellow onion
• 2.5 cups heavy cream
• 1.5 cups Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 0.25 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Watch how to make Spicy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Penne

Follow the key cooking steps, then use the full instructions below for measurements and timing.

How to make Spicy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Penne

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. Add the 12 oz of penne pasta and cook according to package directions, typically 10-12 minutes, until al dente.
2. While the pasta cooks, cut the 1.5 lbs of chicken breasts into 1-inch bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, toss the chicken with 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 0.25 cup unsalted butter. Once melted, add 4 minced garlic cloves, 1 diced red bell pepper, 1 diced green bell pepper, and 0.5 diced yellow onion. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
5. Pour in 2.5 cups of heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently. Allow it to simmer for 2-3 minutes to slightly thicken.
6. Gradually whisk in 1.5 cups of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Stir in 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, 0.5 tsp salt, and 0.25 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Drain the cooked penne pasta, reserving about 1 cup of the starchy pasta water. Add the drained pasta and the cooked chicken pieces to the Alfredo sauce in the skillet.
8. Toss gently to combine all ingredients, ensuring the pasta and chicken are thoroughly coated in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.
9. Serve hot, garnished with 2 tbsp fresh chopped parsley for a bright finish.

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