Saturday, January 9, 2016

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Seasoning Mixture:
     1 teaspoon salt
     1 teaspoon garlic powder
     1 1/4 teaspoon paprika
     1/2 teaspoon black pepper
     1/2 teaspoon onion powder
     1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper 
     1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
     1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

Chicken and Pasta:
     1/2 rotisserie chicken, shredded
     1 lb fettuccine noodles
     2 teaspoons oil
     2 bell peppers, any color, sliced into thin strips
     1 yellow onion, cut into thin half moon slices

Sauce:
     1 tablespoon butter
     2 cloves garlic, finely minced
     4 ounces cream cheese, softened
     1 cup milk
     1/2 cup chicken broth
     1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
     1/2 jar Alfredo Sauce
     1 cup shredded parmesan
     Salt and pepper to taste

Mix together all the seasoning spices in a small bowl and toss all but 1 teaspoon of the mixture with the shredded chicken, reserving the 1 teaspoon for later..

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the noodles according to package directions.

While the noodles are boiling, heat the oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium to medium-high heat. Add the peppers and onions. Sprinkle the reserved spice mixture over the top and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring often, until the onions are softened. Right before veggies are done add shredded chicken and toss.  Remove to a large mixing bowl.  

Return the skillet to the heat and make the sauce by adding the butter and garlic. Stir constantly for 30 seconds or so until the garlic is fragrant. Add the cream cheese in large pieces and whisk or stir until smooth and thick.

In a large liquid measuring cup, whisk together the milk, broth and cornstarch until well combined.  Gradually pour this mixture into the skillet, whisking vigorously to avoid lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce is slightly thickened.   Add the Alfredo Sauce and parmesan cheese and stir till cheese is melted.  Add salt and pepper to taste 

Add the chicken, peppers and onions and stir to coat with sauce. Remove from the heat.

Once the noodles are finished cooking, drain and add to the bowl with the veggies and chicken mixture.  Pour the sauce mixture over the top and toss to coat everything with sauce. Serve immediately, garnishing with green onions, if desired.

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