Creamy Cajun Chicken & Corn Penne
This Creamy Cajun Chicken & Corn Penne is a bold, flavorful one-pan wonder perfect for busy weeknights with tender chicken, sweet corn, and a luscious spiced cream sauce.
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 ounces penne pasta the perfect pasta shape to hold the creamy sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing the chicken and vegetables
- 1 pound chicken breast diced, tender, lean protein
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning the star spice blend that brings all the flavors together
- 1 cup corn kernels fresh, frozen, or canned, whichever you prefer
- 1 cup heavy cream creates the rich and velvety sauce
- 1 cup chicken broth adds depth and moisture to the dish
- 1 cup bell peppers diced, a mix of red, yellow, and green for color and sweetness
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder enhances the overall savory profile
- 1 teaspoon onion powder complements the garlic and spices
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish, adds a bright, herbal finish
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water for later.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned on all sides and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced bell peppers and corn kernels. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the peppers are slightly softened and the corn is heated through.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly for about 3-5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and more Cajun seasoning if desired.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet along with the drained penne pasta. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your preferred consistency.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy a warm, comforting meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Equipment
- Large Pot
- Large Skillet
- Wooden Spoon
- Silicone spatula
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Colander
Notes
- Use frozen corn and bell peppers during winter months for convenience and flavor.
- Swap chicken breast for turkey breast or firm tofu for a different protein option.
- Add seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach to keep the dish fresh and nutritious.
- Experiment with different pasta shapes like penne rigate or rigatoni for variety.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream.