Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Steps6

1. 1

   Step 1. Season the chicken

   Pat the chicken dry and pound to an even thickness. Coat with 1 tbsp olive oil, then season on both sides.

   Chicken breastPaprikaGarlic powderOnion powderItalian seasoningSaltBlack pepperCayenne pepper
2. 2

   Step 2. Boil the pasta

   Boil the pasta in salted water until just shy of al dente. Save at least 1/2 cup pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.

   Rigatoni
3. 3

   Step 3. Sear the chicken

   Heat a large pan or pot over medium heat for a few mins. Add 2 tbsp olive oil, increase to medium-high, add the chicken. Sear for 3–4 mins per side until golden, then reduce heat if needed and cook through. Set aside to rest.

   Chicken breast
4. 4

   Step 4. Cook the shallot

   5 min

   Reduce heat to medium. In the same pan, melt the butter, scraping up all that fond. Add the shallot and cook for 5 mins, add the garlic, cook for 1 more min.

5. 5

   Step 5. Make the sauce

   3 min

   Reduce heat to medium-low, slowly pour in the cream. Add the seasonings and simmer for 2–3 mins. Reduce heat to low, add the parmesan and stir until smooth.

   Chicken bouillon powder
6. 6

   Step 6. Toss the pasta

   1m 30s

   Add the pasta and 1/4 cup pasta water, toss over low heat for 1–2 mins until the sauce is silky. Add more pasta water as needed. Slice the chicken, add it on top, and finish with more parm and fresh parsley.

   RigatoniParmesan