Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

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## **Instructions:**

### **1. Cook the Pasta:**
– Bring a large pot of **salted water** to a boil and cook the **pasta** according to package instructions.
– Drain and set aside, reserving **½ cup of pasta water**.

### **2. Cook the Cajun Chicken:**
– In a large skillet, heat **olive oil** over **medium-high heat**.
– Toss the **chicken strips** with **Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper**.
– Sear the chicken for **4-5 minutes per side**, until golden brown and fully cooked.
– Remove from the skillet and set aside.

### **3. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce:**
– In the same skillet, melt **butter** and sauté the **garlic** for **30 seconds** until fragrant.
– Pour in the **chicken broth and heavy cream**, stirring well.
– Add **Parmesan cheese**, **Cajun seasoning**, and **red pepper flakes**, and let simmer for **2-3 minutes** until thickened.
– If adding **bell peppers or cherry tomatoes**, toss them in now and cook for **2 minutes**.

### **4. Combine Everything:**
– Add the **cooked pasta** to the sauce and toss to coat.
– Stir in the **reserved pasta water**, if needed, to loosen the sauce.
– Return the **chicken** to the skillet, letting it soak in the creamy goodness.

### **5. Serve & Enjoy!**
– Garnish with **fresh parsley, green onions, or extra Parmesan cheese**.
– Serve hot and enjoy your **Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta**!

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## **Serving Suggestions:**

🥗 **With a Side Salad** – A fresh Caesar or garden salad balances the richness.
🥖 **Garlic Bread** – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce!
🍷 **Wine Pairing** – A glass of **Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc** complements the spice.

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## **Make It Your Own!**

🍤 **Swap the Protein:** Try **shrimp, sausage, or a mix of both**!
🥦 **Add More Veggies:** Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini work great.
🔥 **Adjust the Heat:** Add **extra Cajun seasoning or hot sauce** for more spice.
🌿 **Make It Lighter:** Use **half-and-half instead of heavy cream** for a lower-calorie option.

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## **Final Thoughts:**

This **Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta** is **spicy, indulgent, and packed with flavor**. It’s the perfect **quick and easy dinner** that feels like a **restaurant-quality** meal. Whether you’re making it for your family or a special occasion, this dish is sure to be a hit.

🍝🔥 **Try it today and let me know how you like it!** 😍