Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb Boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 medium Red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium Green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1/2 Yellow onion, diced
- 8 oz Penne pasta (dry)
- 2 1/2 cups Chicken broth
- 1 cup Heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley and red pepper flakes for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Sauté the Chicken and Vegetables: Start by tossing your chicken pieces in a bowl with one tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated. Heat the olive oil in a large deep skillet or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 3-4 minutes until browned on all sides. Toss in the diced onions, red bell peppers, and green bell peppers. Sauté for another 3 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and the chicken is nearly cooked through. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 2: Simmer the Pasta: Pour the chicken broth and the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning into the pot, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan—this is where the flavor lives! Add the dry penne pasta directly into the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 10-12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent the pasta from sticking to the bottom.
- Step 3: Finish and Garnish: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes over low heat, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and becomes silky and indulgent. Taste the sauce and add salt or extra Cajun spice if you want more heat. Remove from heat and garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for that extra Christmas pop of color. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
- Cook Time: 20 minutes