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Homemade Cajun Chicken Pasta Penne photo

Cajun Chicken Pasta Penne

A creamy, spicy Cajun chicken pasta with penne and broccoli ready in about 35 minutes.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Equipment

  • large stock pot
  • Colander
  • Large Skillet
  • Measuring Spoons
  • Measuring Cups
  • Whisk
  • Knife
  • Cutting Board

Ingredients
  

  • 2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 8 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)
  • 16 ounces frozen chopped broccoli
  • 1 pound chicken breast cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2-3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon minced garlic
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy whipping cream
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Instructions
 

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, add the penne and cook about 9 minutes until al dente.
  • During the last 2–4 minutes of the pasta cooking time, add the frozen broccoli to the pot and cook until tender; drain pasta and broccoli in a colander.
  • In a small bowl, combine paprika, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.
  • Toss the cubed chicken with 2–3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
  • Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until cooked through and no longer pink, about 6–8 minutes; transfer chicken to a plate and keep warm.
  • Reduce heat to medium-low and add butter to the same skillet. Stir in minced garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Whisk in the chicken broth, heavy cream, and flour. Cook over medium-low, whisking frequently, until the sauce thickens and starts to bubble, about 3–5 minutes.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta and broccoli. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce and heat through.
  • Remove from heat, sprinkle with the shredded Parmesan, toss briefly, and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Use 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning for mild heat, 3 for spicier flavor.
  • Cook pasta to al dente to avoid becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
  • Reserve a splash of pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.