Cajun chicken Alfredo with penne pasta is a delicious and easy-to-make Italian-American dish that is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a casual dinner party. The dish is a classic combination of tender chicken breast, spicy Cajun seasoning, creamy Alfredo sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta.
The flavorful blend of Cajun spices with creamy Alfredo sauce is sure to please your taste buds and satisfy your hunger.
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cooking Instructions
- Follow package instructions to cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning and salt.
- Over medium-high heat use skillet to heat olive oil. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add butter and garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked penne pasta and chicken to the pan with the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated with the sauce.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. You can also sprinkle some extra Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley on top of the pasta before serving for an extra touch of flavor and color.
Conclusion
Cajun chicken Alfredo with penne pasta is a classic dish that is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, spicy Cajun seasoning, and creamy Alfredo sauce make this a favorite for many. To make this recipe a complete meal serve it with a side salad or some garlic bread.
FAQs
Can I substitute the penne pasta with another type of pasta?
You can use any type of pasta, that you like. However, penne pasta works best for this recipe as its shape allows it to hold onto the sauce and chicken.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream for the Alfredo sauce?
Yes, heavy cream is essential for the creamy texture of the Alfredo sauce. You can use half-and-half or milk, but the sauce will not be as thick and creamy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh and hot. However, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. Just be sure to cook the pasta fresh before serving.
Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Penne Pasta
Ingredients
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, sliced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Follow package instructions to cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning and salt.
- Over medium-high heat use skillet to heat olive oil. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- In the same pan, add butter and garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- Add the cooked penne pasta and chicken to the pan with the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated with the sauce.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
