Cajun Chicken Cutlets over Fusilli

This is by no means an original idea: Cajun Chicken Cutlets over Fusilli. Allegedly, Chili's serves something like this, according to the land of Pinterest. But I haven't been to a Chili's since 1999, so don't quote me. I'm sure it has a way catchier name on the Chili's menu.

This was really really good. Eveything works perfectly together. I love the final addition of fresh tomatoes and parsley right before serving. Keeps it light.

Be sure to get your hands on a fab cajun seasoning. Mine is from a wonderful market in my hood called Bagliani's. It is way better than the McCormick seasoning, I would say quite confidantly.

Believe it or not, The Husband cooked me something like this way way way back in the day when he was trying to woo me and I actually agreed to let him do anything in the kitchen.

Here is my way, which is the only way.

Kidding! (Not really).

Cajun chicken cutlets over fusilli
Makes 4-6 servings

2 lbs. thin chicken cutlets
4 Tbsp. cajun seasoning, divided
4 Tbsp. olive oil, divided
1 Tbsp. butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon
1 cup 1/2 and 1/2
Pasta water
1/2 lb. to 3/4 lb. fusilli pasta
1/4 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
4 plum tomatoes, chopped
Parmiggiano cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

In a rectangle glass dish, whisk together 3 Tbsp. cajun seasoning and 3 Tbsp. olive oil. Add chicken cutlets. Massage cajun oil all over chicken cutlets. Set aside for at least 30 minutes.

In a grill pan over medium heat, cook chicken cutlets in batches, about 3 minutes each side. Set aside and keep covered.

In a large pot of salted water, cook fusilli pasta as instructed on the package.

As the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add 1 Tbsp. olive oil and 1 Tbsp. butter. Add garlic and cajun seasoning. Cook for 3-4 minutes. Add a couple of ladles of pasta water, 1/2 and /1/2, lemon zest and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle bubble. Once pasta is cooked, add it directly to the saucepan. Heat through for another minute.  Add more 1/2 and 1/2 or pasta water if you want it saucier. Turn off heat and toss with a handful of cheese.

To serve: Place a spoonful or two of pasta on a plate. Top with one or two pieces of chicken and then top with fresh tomatoes and parsley. Add more cheese if desired.