Description
A healthier take on the classic Cajun chicken pasta, packed with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 12 oz whole wheat pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup milk (skim or 1%)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
- While pasta is cooking, season chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and a pinch of Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Add onion and bell peppers to the same skillet. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer.
- Stir in milk, Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta and toss to combine, ensuring everything is coated in the sauce.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- You can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breasts if preferred.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or broccoli.
- Ensure your Cajun seasoning is low-sodium if you are watching your salt intake.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American