Ingredients
Scale
- Chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces 1.5 lbs
- Cream cheese, softened 4 oz
- Jalapeños, minced 2 tbsp
- Garlic, minced 2 cloves
- Heavy cream 1/2 cup
- Cheddar cheese, shredded 1 cup
- Cajun seasoning 2 tbsp
- Pasta (rotini or fusilli) 1 lb
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add minced garlic and jalapeños. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in cream cheese and heavy cream. Reduce heat to low and simmer until cream cheese is melted and smooth, about 3-5 minutes.
- Step 3: Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to coat chicken in the creamy jalapeño sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Step 4: While the chicken is simmering, cook pasta according to package directions. Drain the pasta and return it to the pot.
- Step 5: Add shredded cheddar cheese and Cajun seasoning to the cooked pasta. Toss until cheese is melted and pasta is evenly coated.
- Step 6: Serve the creamy jalapeño garlic chicken bites over the twisted cheddar Cajun pasta. Enjoy!
Notes
- For best flavor, store leftovers in separate containers to prevent the pasta from becoming soggy.
- When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the chicken to restore its creamy consistency.
- Garnish your dish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a vibrant finish.
- Don't overcrowd the pan when browning the chicken, as this will steam it instead of searing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American