Ingredients
Scale
Gathering the right ingredients is like assembling a cast of characters for a story — each one brings its own charm to the narrative. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
If you fancy a twist, swap the chicken for shrimp or your favorite protein. And if heavy cream isn’t your style, try a mix of milk and Greek yogurt for a lighter touch. My mum always said that recipes are guidelines, not rules — a philosophy I live by in my kitchen adventures.
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning them with Cajun spice, and cook until they’re golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced bell pepper and diced onion. Sauté until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Add the penne pasta, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the bottom.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Let everything simmer together for about 15 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened to your liking. My mum always said the key is in the waiting — let the flavors mingle like old friends catching up.
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and blend into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International