One-Pan Creamy Sweet and Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta

ingredients

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, sliced
  • 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup sweet chili sauce
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp honey
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp cream cheese
  • 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Green onions or parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • method

    1. Heat olive oil or butter in a large deep skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt, pepper, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5–6 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
    2. In the same skillet, pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, sweet chili sauce, and honey. Stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a low boil.
    3. Stir in the uncooked pasta and lower the heat to medium. Cover and cook for 12–14 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the liquid is mostly absorbed. Add a splash more broth or water if needed during cooking.
    4. Reduce heat to low. Add the cream cheese, Parmesan, and mozzarella. Stir continuously until everything is melted into a smooth, velvety sauce.
    5. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat it with the creamy sauce. Let everything heat through for 1–2 minutes.
    6. Serve hot, topped with chopped green onions or parsley for a bright, fresh finish.

    notes

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