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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Whipped Roasted Garlic Feta & Crispy Chickpeas

Savor the rich flavors of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Whipped Roasted Garlic Feta & Crispy Chickpeas. This delightful dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a creamy, spicy sauce that tantalizes your taste buds. Topped with velvety whipped feta and crunchy chickpeas, this recipe is a comforting celebration on a plate—ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
  • 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus extra for chicken)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz block feta cheese
  • 2 roasted garlic cloves
  • 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Drain and rinse the chickpeas; pat dry.
  2. 2. Toss chickpeas with olive oil and Cajun seasoning on a baking sheet. Roast for about 25 minutes until crispy.
  3. 3. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Sear in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 6 minutes per side until cooked through.
  4. 4. In the same skillet, add heavy cream and additional Cajun seasoning; simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes.
  5. 5. Blend roasted garlic and feta cheese in a food processor until smooth.
  6. 6. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and combine with sauce and chicken in the skillet. Add reserved pasta water if needed.
  7. 7. Serve topped with whipped feta and crispy chickpeas.

Nutrition

Keywords: - For added spice, incorporate cayenne pepper into the sauce. - Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variations. - Fresh herbs like parsley can enhance flavor.