Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Ingredients

• 16 oz penne pasta
• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, plus more as needed
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon Old Bay seasoning
• 1 tablespoon oil, plus more for frying if needed
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1/2 medium bell pepper, chopped
• 4 oz diced tomatoes
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 4 oz cream cheese
• 1 teaspoon chicken bouillon
• 1 additional teaspoon Cajun seasoning for the sauce
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Method

1. Cook the penne in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Flatten the chicken breasts slightly for even cooking.
3. Coat the chicken with oil, Cajun seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, parsley, paprika and Old Bay.
4. Heat oil in a large skillet and cook the chicken until browned and fully cooked, turning as needed. Transfer it to a plate.
5. Melt the butter in the same skillet.
6. Add the onion, bell pepper and diced tomatoes and cook until softened.
7. Add the heavy cream, minced garlic, cream cheese, chicken bouillon and additional Cajun seasoning.
8. Stir over medium-low heat until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
9. Add the drained penne and toss until well coated.
10. Slice the chicken and add it to the pasta.
11. Stir in or sprinkle over the Parmesan and serve hot.