Creamy Parmesan Fettuccine With Cajun Chicken Bites
A delicious fusion of creamy Parmesan fettuccine and spicy Cajun chicken bites, perfect for a comforting family dinner or casual get-together.
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Stock Pot
- Cutting Board
- Chef’s Knife
- Wooden Spoon
- Colander
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika in a bowl. Coat evenly. Let it sit for 10 minutes if possible.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear until golden, about 5-7 minutes. Set aside.
- Boil the pasta: In a stock pot, cook fettuccine in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Save a cup of pasta water.
- Make the sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring gently. Simmer for 3 minutes.
- Add cheese: Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Combine: Add cooked fettuccine and chicken to the sauce. Toss until well-coated. Heat through for 2 minutes. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
- Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
For a spicier kick, add extra Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes. You can also swap chicken for shrimp or make it vegetarian with grilled vegetables.