Cajun Chicken Pasta

Bring a large pot of water to a raging boil, seasoning it with 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Add the pasta and cook it for the length of time indicated on the package so the pasta is al dente. Drain the past once it's done and set it aside. Read all my tips on cooking pasta here: How to Cook Pasta. 8 ounces penne pasta

While the pasta is cooking, heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. 2 tablespoons olive oil

Season the chicken on both sides with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (total for the chicken). Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for about 3 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts,1 1/2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

Remove the chicken from the skillet. Clean the pan and return it to the medium heat.

Melt the butter, add the garlic, and sauté for about 30 seconds. Whisk in the flour and cook for another 30 seconds. Slowly add the half and half, initially about a tablespoon at a time, so the sauce thickens. Add more quickly after you have added about half a cup. The whole process should take less than a minute. 2 tablespoons unsalted butter,2 cloves garlic,1 tablespoon all purpose flour,1 1/2 cups half and half

Stir in the Parmesan cheese and allow it to melt completely. Add the remaining 1/2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning and season with salt and pepper to taste. 1/3 cup grated Parmesan,salt and pepper to taste

Add the penne to the sauce, top with diced tomatoes, parsley, Parmesan cheese, and the sliced cooked chicken. Enjoy immediately!