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–+ servings
Creamy Cajun Penne

Creamy Cajun Penne

Discover the perfect blend of bold flavors and creamy textures with this Creamy Cajun Penne, a weeknight favorite that's easy and delicious.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • to taste salt and black pepper
  • to garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat; season the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and add to the skillet.
  3. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned and cooked through; remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté the asparagus for 3-4 minutes until tender but still crisp; remove and set aside.
  5. Melt butter in the skillet; add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a simmer, then stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, simmer for 3-4 minutes until thickened.
  7. Add shredded mozzarella cheese and stir until melted and smooth; then add cooked pasta, chicken, and asparagus, and toss to coat.
  8. Simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld flavors, garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan, and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 44gProtein: 25gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 650mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk. You can swap chicken for shrimp or tofu, and if asparagus isn’t available, try broccoli or green beans. This dish is excellent for potlucks or quick weeknight dinners; leftovers are just as delicious after a day in the fridge. Microwave with a dash of broth to reheat and keep creamy. For added freshness, squeeze lemon juice over the dish just before serving.
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