AMAZING CAJUN CHICKEN PASTA

Honestly I have not been to Chile in about 10 years, but this place really holds good memories for me. I came here with my family on many occasions and I might have my first real date here. Not kidding.

Hey, when you are 16 years old, Chile is the best date night you will get. And I won't mind on Friday night now. After all, have you ever seen their onions bloom?

But this cajun pasta always has my heart and soul. The creamy alfredo sauce that just melts right in your mouth, comes with a spicy kick of cajun chicken topped with fresh tomato slices and freshly shredded Parmesan cheese.

The combination of flavors is perfect, and you can make it at home in 30 minutes or less. That way you can date the night with the same quality restaurant at home, sweat, watch Netflix. Finished.

yield: 4 SERVINGS

prep time: 10 MINUTES

cook time: 20 MINUTES

total time: 30 MINUTES

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 tablespoon cajun seasoning
• 8 ounces penne pasta
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream, or more, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 Roma tomatoes, diced
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley leaves

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a gallon size Ziploc bag, add chicken, 1 tablespoon olive oil and cajun seasoning, shaking to coat thoroughly.
2. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a grill pan over medium high heat. Add chicken and cook, flipping once, until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes on each side. Set aside and keep warm.
3. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook pasta according to package instructions; drain well.
4. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add garlic, and cook, stirring frequently, until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Gradually whisk in heavy cream and lemon zest. Cook, whisking constantly, until incorporated, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in Parmesan until slightly thickened, about 1-2 minutes. If the mixture is too thick, add more heavy cream as needed; season with salt and pepper, to taste.
6. Stir in pasta and gently toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately with chicken, garnished with tomatoes and parsley, if desired.