Cajun Chicken Broccoli Pasta Skillet (Print Version)

Juicy Cajun chicken, broccoli, and penne tossed in creamy sauce create a bold, delicious weeknight main.

# Components:

→ Chicken

01 - 2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
02 - 1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil

→ Pasta & Vegetables

04 - 8 ounces penne pasta
05 - 2 cups broccoli florets
06 - 3 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 small red bell pepper, diced
08 - 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped

→ Sauce

09 - 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
10 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
11 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 - 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
13 - Salt, to taste
14 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

15 - Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
16 - Extra grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Cook penne pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Add broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of boiling. Drain and set aside.
02 - Toss chicken breast pieces with Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove chicken to a plate and set aside.
03 - In the same skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and diced red bell pepper; sauté for 2 to 3 minutes until vegetables are softened. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until aromatic.
04 - Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer 2 to 3 minutes until slightly thickened. Season with salt and black pepper.
05 - Return cooked penne, broccoli, and chicken to the skillet. Toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.
06 - Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • One pan means easy cleanup and less fuss in the kitchen
  • Ready in under 40 minutes so it is perfect for busy weeknights
  • Layers of flavor from smoky Cajun spices creamy sauce and fresh vegetables
  • Kid friendly but easy to customize for extra spice
  • A balanced meal with protein veggies and pasta all in one bowl
02 -
  • Balanced meal includes protein veggies and carbs in every bite
  • Perfect for leftovers reheats well next day
  • Easy to adapt for gluten free or dairy free needs
  • High in flavor with wholesome ingredients
03 -
  • Take time to really brown the chicken for flavor depth
  • Pat chicken pieces dry before seasoning for crisp browning Do not rush the sauce thickening step letting the cheese fully melt gives it a silky finish

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