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–+ servings

Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta Skillet

This one-skillet Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta combines spicy Cajun seasoning with smoky BBQ sauce for a creamy, bold weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Chicken, Dinner, Pasta, Quick Meals
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 720
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 tablespoon California olive oil
  • 1 pound cooked chicken, shredded or diced
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 cups chicken broth low-sodium preferred
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup BBQ sauce your favorite brand
  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta uncooked
  • 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese softened
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley optional, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the cooked chicken, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is heated through.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth, heavy cream, BBQ sauce, and uncooked pasta. Stir to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low.
  4. Simmer the pasta, stirring occasionally, for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
  5. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the cheddar cheese and cream cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
  6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 720kcalCarbohydrates: 52gProtein: 38gFat: 42gSaturated Fat: 22gCholesterol: 175mgSodium: 980mgFiber: 3gSugar: 18g

Notes

For a spicier kick, add an extra teaspoon of Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce. You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but expect a thinner consistency. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth. To make ahead, cook the pasta separately and combine with the sauce just before serving. Avoid overcooking the pasta as it will continue to soften in the hot sauce. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a California twist, top with diced avocado or a squeeze of Meyer lemon before serving.

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