Ingredients
To create this indulgent yet simple dish, gather the following ingredients:
1 lb chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine works well)
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by slicing the chicken breast into thin strips. This helps the chicken cook evenly and quickly, making the dish come together faster. Season the strips generously with Cajun seasoning, and don’t shy away from the spices—they’re what give this dish its bold, smoky flavor!
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken is being prepared, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta (penne or fettuccine), and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside. Keep a little pasta water just in case you need to adjust the sauce consistency later.
Step 3: Cook the Cajun Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly browned on the edges. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Then, add the heavy cream and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 3-5 minutes, letting it thicken. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Once the sauce is ready, return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the cherry tomatoes. Stir everything together to coat the chicken and tomatoes in that luscious sauce. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything to combine. If the sauce seems too thick, feel free to add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
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