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Chili’s-Style Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy, smoky and just spicy enough, this Chili’s favorite is the kind of pasta people order once and never forget.
Prep Time30 minutes
Active Time30 minutes
Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun and Creole, Southern
Keyword: Chicken Recipe, Chili's Grill & Bar, Pasta Dish
Yield: 2

Ingredients

  • 2 boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 8 ounces Penne Pasta
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted Butter
  • 2 cloves Garlic minced
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 1/2 cup Whole Milk
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground Black Pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper
  • 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed Lemon Juice
  • 1/2 cup Diced Tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped Fresh Parsley
  • 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan Cheese to garnish

Instructions

  • Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  • Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness.
  • Rub both sides with Cajun seasoning.
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • When oil is hot and shimmering, sear chicken for 5 to 6 minutes per side, until cooked through.
  • Transfer to a plate and let rest for a few minutes before slicing into strips.
  • In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
  • Sauté garlic 30 seconds until fragrant.
  • Add heavy cream, milk, grated Parmesan, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder and cayenne. Stir well and simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, until slightly thickened.
  • Stir in lemon juice, diced tomatoes, and chopped parsley.
  • Add the cooked pasta. Toss to coat in the sauce.
  • Divide pasta onto plates. Top with sliced Cajun chicken.
  • Garnish with shredded Parmesan cheese and extra parsley.
  • Serve warm.