Ingredients

3 medium chicken breasts

1 cup heavy whipping cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 tbsp corn starch

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

3 cloves minced garlic

2 tbsp unsalted butter

Fresh parsley for garnish

Fettuccine pasta (enough for 3 servings)

2 tbsp smoked paprika

2 tbsp garlic powder

2 tbsp onion powder

1 tsp salt

1 tsp black pepper

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

1/2 tbsp garlic herb blend

Instructions

Step 1: Combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and garlic herb blend in a small bowl. Season all sides of the chicken breasts evenly with this Cajun spice mix.

Step 2: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken breasts, flipping every 3 minutes, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter and the minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.

Step 4: Meanwhile, cook the fettuccine pasta in boiling salted water for 6 to 8 minutes or until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water.

Step 5: To the skillet with garlic and butter, add 1 cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water), 1 cup heavy whipping cream, and 1 tablespoon corn starch. Stir well to combine.

Step 6: Gradually add 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese while stirring until the sauce thickens.

Step 7: Add the cooked fettuccine noodles into the skillet and toss thoroughly to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.

Step 8: Slice the cooked Cajun chicken and serve it on top of the pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother sauce and richer flavor.

If the sauce gets too thick, thin it with a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

For extra heat, increase the cayenne pepper or add crushed red pepper flakes to the Cajun seasoning.

Substitute fettuccine with other pasta shapes like linguine or penne if preferred.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used and will yield a juicier result. Adjust cooking time slightly to ensure they are cooked through.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Keep in mind this will alter the flavor and texture somewhat.