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Pioneer Woman Cajun Chicken Pasta

Pioneer Woman Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe

Cajun cuisine hails from Louisiana, where French, African, and Southern cooking traditions meet. Cajun chicken pasta takes those robust spices and blends them with Italian-inspired pasta dishes, creating a fusion that’s creamy yet spicy. The Pioneer Woman’s version is approachable and family-friendly, balancing heat with creaminess for a perfectly satisfying meal.

Ingredients

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (2 large, cut into strips)

  • Cajun seasoning (2 tbsp)

  • Olive oil (2 tbsp)

  • Butter (2 tbsp)

  • Onion (1, sliced)

  • Bell peppers (2, assorted colors, sliced)

  • Garlic (3 cloves, minced)

  • Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz)

  • Heavy cream (1 cup)

  • Chicken broth (1 cup)

  • Penne pasta (12 oz)

  • Parmesan cheese (½ cup, grated)

  • Fresh parsley (for garnish)

  • Salt and black pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the pasta

Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and cook chicken

Coat chicken strips with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet. Sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté vegetables

In the same skillet, add onions, bell peppers, and garlic. Cook until softened and slightly caramelized.

Step 4: Build the sauce

Stir in crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Simmer for 5 minutes, then add heavy cream. Stir until the sauce becomes creamy and thick.

Step 5: Combine everything

Return chicken to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and mix gently.

Step 6: Garnish and serve

Top with fresh parsley and serve hot.