One-Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Meal Prep

Ingredients

• 30 ml olive oil
• 800 g boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3.5 g onion powder, approximately 1 1/2 teaspoons
• 3.5 g garlic powder, approximately 1 1/2 teaspoons
• 2.5 g dried oregano, approximately 1 1/2 teaspoons
• 2.5 g dried thyme, approximately 1 1/2 teaspoons
• 1 g red chilli powder, approximately 1/2 teaspoon
• 10 g smoked paprika, approximately 2 tablespoons
• 1 medium brown or yellow onion, approximately 150 g, diced
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 750 ml chicken stock
• 600 g canned diced or crushed tomatoes
• 200 ml thickened or double cream, approximately 220 g
• 600 g dry penne
• 1 teaspoon fine salt initially, plus more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper, plus more to taste
• 50 g Parmesan cheese, optional, for serving
• 5 g flat-leaf parsley, chopped, optional

Method

1. Combine the onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, chilli powder and smoked paprika.
2. Place the diced chicken thighs in a bowl and coat them evenly with the spice mixture.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-based pot over medium-high heat.
4. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for approximately 5 minutes, stirring regularly, until lightly browned.
5. Add the diced onion and cook for approximately 3 minutes, until it begins to soften.
6. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring continuously.
7. Pour in the chicken stock and add the canned tomatoes and cream.
8. Season initially with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Stir thoroughly and bring to a boil.
9. Add the dry penne and stir to ensure it is submerged as evenly as possible.
10. Maintain a strong but controlled simmer and cook for approximately 12 to 18 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is al dente and the sauce has thickened.
11. If the liquid is absorbed before the pasta becomes tender, add hot water in 50 ml increments.
12. Check that the largest chicken pieces have reached at least 74°C internally.
13. Remove the pot from the heat and leave it to stand for 3 to 5 minutes so the sauce can settle.
14. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
15. Divide evenly among five meal-prep containers.
16. Add Parmesan and parsley when serving, if desired.