Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1Cook pasta according to package directions. Drain when pasta is still al dente; do not overcook!

Step 2Sprinkle 1 1/2 teaspoons of the Cajun seasoning over the chicken pieces. Toss to coat.

Step 3In a heavy skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil and 1 tablespoon butter over high heat. Add half of the chicken in a single layer; do not stir. Allow the chicken to brown on one side, about 1 minute. Flip to the other side and cook for an additional minute. Using a slotted spoon, remove the chicken to a clean plate. Repeat with the remaining chicken. Remove the chicken, leaving the pan on high heat.

Step 4Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan. When heated, add the peppers, onion, and garlic. Sprinkle on the remaining 1 1/2 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning, and season with salt, if needed. Cook over high heat for 1 minute, stirring gently and trying to get the vegetables as dark/black as possible. Add the tomatoes and cook for 30 seconds more. Remove all of the vegetables from the pan.

Step 5With the pan over high heat, pour in the wine and chicken broth. Cook on high for 3 to 5 minutes, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Reduce the heat to medium-low and pour in the cream, stirring/whisking constantly. Cook the sauce over medium-low heat until the cream starts to thicken the mixture, a few minutes. Taste and add black pepper, cayenne pepper, and salt to taste. The sauce should be spicy!

Step 6Finally, add the chicken and vegetables to the sauce, making sure to include all the juices that have drained onto the plate. Stir and cook until the mixture is bubbly and hot, 1 to 2 minutes. Add the drained pasta and toss to combine.

Step 7Top with chopped fresh parsley and chow down!