Description

A flavorful and creamy dish that combines spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken with a sweet honey butter sauce, tossed with pasta and topped with Parmesan and fresh parsley.

Ingredients

2 large chicken breasts, sliced into strips

2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon honey

8 oz penne pasta

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and black pepper, to taste

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season the chicken strips evenly with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Stir in the honey and crushed red pepper flakes (if using), letting the mixture bubble gently for 1-2 minutes.
Pour in the heavy cream, stirring constantly until combined and slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
Add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Return the chicken to the skillet and toss to coat it in the sauce. Then add the cooked pasta, mixing well to combine all ingredients evenly.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a flavorful vegetarian version of this dish.

Different Pasta: You can use any type of pasta you like, such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or rigatoni, depending on your preference.

Extra Heat: For an even spicier kick, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

Cheese Variations: Try adding a mix of cheeses like mozzarella or Gouda for a different twist on the flavor.

Gluten-Free: Swap out the pasta for gluten-free penne or any gluten-free pasta of your choice.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to help loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 550
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 750mg
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 30g
Cholesterol: 70mg