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Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet
Ingredients:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 smoked sausage links, sliced
12 oz penne pasta (or your preferred type)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup chicken broth
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon butter
Fresh parsley, for garnish
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Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Cook the pasta according to the package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water.
2. Season the Chicken:
Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes, until browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. Cook the Sausage:
In the same skillet, add the sliced sausage and cook for 3–4 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
5. Make the Sauce:
Add butter to the skillet and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
6. Add Cream and Cheese:
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, until it starts to thicken slightly.
7. Combine Everything:
Return the chicken, sausage, and cooked pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together in the creamy sauce. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
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8. Final Touch:
Let it simmer for another 2–3 minutes to heat through. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Enjoy a comforting, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for any night of the week!
Let me know if you’d like a shorter version or one adapted for a printable recipe card.
