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Creamy, Spicy Chicken Pasta with Summer Vegetables

Creamy Spicy Chicken Pasta

This creamy, spicy chicken pasta features tender chicken, fresh summer vegetables, and a rich, flavorful sauce with Cajun seasoning and Parmesan, perfect for a satisfying main course.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course, pasta
Cuisine American
Servings 2 people
Calories 497 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large nonstick pan for cooking chicken and vegetables
  • 1 pot for boiling pasta

Ingredients
  

  • 6 oz dry Farfalle bowtie pasta
  • 8 oz chicken breast
  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 2 tsp avocado oil
  • 1/2 cup diced orange bell pepper
  • 2/3 cup thinly sliced zucchini
  • 2 tbsp minced jalapeno
  • 1/3 cup diced tomato
  • 1/3 cup chopped green onion divided
  • 2 tsp tomato paste
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper plus more for serving
  • 1 cup half and half or heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste

Instructions
 

  • Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, using about 1/2 tsp per side, then let it rest at room temperature for 10 to 15 minutes.
  • Heat avocado oil in a large nonstick pan over medium heat and cook the chicken for 4 to 5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through; remove and keep warm tented with foil.
  • In the same pan, sauté zucchini, bell pepper, and jalapeno for 6 to 7 minutes until softened, scraping up any browned bits.
  • Add tomatoes, half the green onions, tomato paste, and a pinch of salt; cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  • Start boiling the farfalle pasta in salted water and cook until al dente, about one minute less than package instructions.
  • Stir in garlic and crushed red pepper, cook for 1 minute, then reduce heat to medium-low and add half and half; simmer gently for 6 to 7 minutes until thickened, seasoning with salt and pepper.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss well to coat; grate in Parmesan cheese and stir to combine.
  • If needed, add reserved pasta water tablespoon by tablespoon to achieve desired creaminess.
  • Serve the pasta in warm bowls topped with remaining green onions, extra Parmesan, and crushed red pepper to taste.

Notes

  • Adjust crushed red pepper to your preferred spice level.
  • Serve with garlic bread and a fresh salad for a complete meal.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.