Creamy Cajun Chicken and Sausage Penne

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 8 oz smoked sausage, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup diced bell peppers
• 1/2 cup diced onions
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Steps

1. 1 Cook penne according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. 2 Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned.
3. 3 Remove chicken and add sausage to the skillet; cook until browned.
4. 4 In the same skillet, sauté onions and bell peppers until softened.
5. 5 Stir in garlic and Cajun seasoning, cooking for another minute.
6. 6 Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
7. 7 Add cooked chicken back into the skillet and simmer for 5 minutes.
8. 8 Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and sauce is creamy.
9. 9 Combine the penne with the chicken and sausage mixture in the skillet; heat through.
10. 10 Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for pasta
• Colander

Variations

• Substitute chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
• Add in some diced tomatoes for extra tang.

Substitutions

• Use half-and-half in place of heavy cream for a lighter option.
• Substitute Parmesan with another hard cheese like Pecorino Romano.

Pairings

• A crisp Chardonnay complements the spicy kick.
• A cold lager can help balance the heat.

Nutrition

Tips

• Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your spice tolerance.
• For extra flavor, toast the Cajun seasoning in the oil before adding other ingredients.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to maintain creaminess.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad and garlic bread.
• Serve with a side of cornbread for a hearty meal.

FAQ