Spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta in 30 Minutes

Instructions:

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne and cook until just al dente (usually 1-2 minutes less than package directions).
2. Scoop out 1/2 cup (120ml) of the starchy pasta water before draining the pasta. Set aside.
3. Toss the cubed chicken breast in a bowl with the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and sear without moving for 3-4 minutes until a mahogany crust forms, then flip and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan and set aside.
5. In the same skillet, add the diced red onion and sliced bell peppers. Sauté until softened.
6. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
7. Pour in the chicken broth, deglazing the pan by scraping up the browned bits from the bottom.
8. Stir in the half-and-half, grated Parmesan cheese, and smoked paprika. Simmer until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
9. Return the seared chicken and cooked penne to the skillet.
10. Gradually stir in the reserved pasta water to emulsify the sauce until it coats the pasta evenly.
11. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and season with salt and black pepper to taste.