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Cajun Chicken Pasta Restaurant Style Flavor Explosion

by on January 4, 2025

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Ready to ignite your taste buds? My Cajun Chicken Pasta Restaurant Style takes your dinner game to new heights! Imagine juicy chicken set against rich fettuccine, all draped in a creamy, spiced sauce. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a flavor explosion right in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the secrets of making this mouthwatering dish that’s sure to impress family and friends alike.

- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup chicken broth - 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 red bell pepper - 1 yellow bell pepper - 1 small onion - 2 cloves garlic - Fresh parsley for garnish Cajun chicken pasta is a dish bursting with flavor. You need a few key ingredients to make it shine. First, the chicken breasts bring protein and heartiness. I like to slice them for more flavor. Use fettuccine or linguine to soak up the creamy sauce. The sauce is where the magic happens. Heavy cream gives it richness while chicken broth adds depth. Cajun seasoning is a must for that kick of spice. Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. Fresh vegetables also play a big role. The sweet red and yellow bell peppers add crunch and color. Onions and garlic build a solid flavor base. Finally, garnish with parsley for a fresh touch. This blend of ingredients creates a dish that feels restaurant-worthy. Each bite is a flavor explosion. You’ll love how easy it is to recreate this at home! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, take the sliced chicken breasts and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle two tablespoons of Cajun seasoning over the chicken. Toss it well to coat each piece. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes. This step is key for flavor. While the chicken marinates, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until it gets a nice brown color. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure it cooks through, so it’s safe to eat. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add 8 ounces of fettuccine or linguine pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This means it should still be slightly firm. After cooking, drain the pasta but save half a cup of the pasta water. This water will help adjust the sauce later. Now it’s time to make the sauce. In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add one small chopped onion and both a sliced red and yellow bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables until they are softened, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, stir in two minced garlic cloves and cook for one more minute. This adds a nice aroma to your dish. Next, push the veggies to one side of the skillet. Add the browned chicken back in. Pour in one cup of chicken broth and one cup of heavy cream. Stir this mixture well and let it simmer. The sauce should thicken a bit. It’s time to combine everything. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it gently with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency. Finally, stir in half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This will make the sauce creamy and delicious. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste. Now, your Cajun Chicken Pasta is ready to serve! To get the best chicken, marinate it for at least 20 minutes. This helps the flavor soak in. You can check if the chicken is done by cutting it open. The meat should no longer be pink, and juices should run clear. This is key to a safe and tasty dish. The sauce should be creamy, not too thick. If it is too thick, add some reserved pasta water. This helps loosen it up while keeping the taste. Mix in the cheese at the end. Doing this helps the cheese melt into the sauce perfectly. For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. These spices can boost the Cajun flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and brightness. It adds a nice touch and makes your dish look restaurant-style. Pro Tips Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer than 20 minutes can intensify the flavor. If you have time, marinate it for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water can help adjust the sauce consistency and help it cling to the pasta better. Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a bit of cream to balance the heat. Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor. Consider adding fresh basil or cilantro for a different twist! {{image_2}} You can swap chicken for shrimp or sausage. Both add great flavor. If you choose shrimp, cook it until pink and firm. For sausage, cook until browned, then mix with veggies. Vegetarian options are easy too! Try using tofu or beyond meat. You can also use mushrooms for a meaty texture. They soak up the sauce well. While fettuccine is great, you can use other pasta types. Penne or rigatoni work well too. They hold sauce nicely, giving you more flavor in each bite. Looking for gluten-free? Try chickpea or brown rice pasta. They cook similarly and are tasty. Want more veggies? Bell peppers are just the start! Add zucchini, spinach, or broccoli for color and nutrition. They all work well with the sauce. Seasonal produce can brighten the dish. In summer, add fresh tomatoes or corn. In winter, consider kale or butternut squash. Each adds a unique twist to your meal. To store your Cajun chicken pasta, let it cool first. Use an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. Glass or plastic containers work well. Avoid using metal containers, as they might affect the flavors. Store in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. To reheat your pasta, the best method is using the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or water. This keeps the pasta moist and helps with flavor. Heat over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally to warm it evenly. You can also use a microwave if you're short on time. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely. Yes, you can freeze Cajun chicken pasta! Just make sure it’s in a safe container. Use freezer bags or airtight containers. Label with the date, and it will stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. This helps keep the flavor and texture just right. Cajun chicken pasta is a creamy pasta dish. It combines spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken with pasta and colorful veggies. You can find this dish in many restaurants. Its bold flavors and creamy texture make it a favorite among many. The mix of spices and cream creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Yes, you can prepare Cajun chicken pasta ahead of time. Make everything except the pasta and sauce first. Store the cooked chicken and veggies in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, cook the pasta and heat the sauce. This helps keep the flavors fresh and delicious. Making Cajun seasoning at home is easy! Here's a simple recipe: - 1 tablespoon paprika - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon black pepper - 1 teaspoon salt Mix all the spices together in a bowl. Use this mix to spice up your chicken and other dishes too! To complement Cajun chicken pasta, serve: - Garlic bread for dipping in the sauce - A fresh green salad with vinaigrette - Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans These sides balance the rich flavors of the pasta and add freshness to your meal. In this blog post, we explored making Cajun chicken pasta. We covered main ingredients, seasonings, and fresh components. You learned step-by-step how to prepare the chicken, cook the pasta, and make the sauce. We discussed tips for perfecting the dish and offered variations. Storing and reheating methods were also shared. Try this flavorful dish soon. It’s easy to make and perfect for any table!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Bold Flavors: The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick that elevates the dish to a whole new level of deliciousness.
  2. Quick and Easy: This pasta dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner.
  3. Rich and Creamy: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luxurious sauce that coats every bite.
  4. Colorful and Fresh: The vibrant bell peppers not only enhance the flavor but also make the dish visually appealing.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup chicken broth

Seasonings and Add-ins

– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh Ingredients

– 1 red bell pepper

– 1 yellow bell pepper

– 1 small onion

– 2 cloves garlic

– Fresh parsley for garnish

Cajun chicken pasta is a dish bursting with flavor. You need a few key ingredients to make it shine. First, the chicken breasts bring protein and heartiness. I like to slice them for more flavor. Use fettuccine or linguine to soak up the creamy sauce.

The sauce is where the magic happens. Heavy cream gives it richness while chicken broth adds depth. Cajun seasoning is a must for that kick of spice. Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste.

Fresh vegetables also play a big role. The sweet red and yellow bell peppers add crunch and color. Onions and garlic build a solid flavor base. Finally, garnish with parsley for a fresh touch.

This blend of ingredients creates a dish that feels restaurant-worthy. Each bite is a flavor explosion. You’ll love how easy it is to recreate this at home!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Chicken

To start, take the sliced chicken breasts and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle two tablespoons of Cajun seasoning over the chicken. Toss it well to coat each piece. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes. This step is key for flavor. While the chicken marinates, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until it gets a nice brown color. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure it cooks through, so it’s safe to eat.

Cooking the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add 8 ounces of fettuccine or linguine pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This means it should still be slightly firm. After cooking, drain the pasta but save half a cup of the pasta water. This water will help adjust the sauce later.

Making the Sauce

Now it’s time to make the sauce. In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add one small chopped onion and both a sliced red and yellow bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables until they are softened, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, stir in two minced garlic cloves and cook for one more minute. This adds a nice aroma to your dish. Next, push the veggies to one side of the skillet. Add the browned chicken back in. Pour in one cup of chicken broth and one cup of heavy cream. Stir this mixture well and let it simmer. The sauce should thicken a bit.

Finishing Touches

It’s time to combine everything. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it gently with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency. Finally, stir in half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This will make the sauce creamy and delicious. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste. Now, your Cajun Chicken Pasta is ready to serve!

Tips & Tricks

Ensuring Perfect Chicken

To get the best chicken, marinate it for at least 20 minutes. This helps the flavor soak in. You can check if the chicken is done by cutting it open. The meat should no longer be pink, and juices should run clear. This is key to a safe and tasty dish.

Achieving the Best Sauce Consistency

The sauce should be creamy, not too thick. If it is too thick, add some reserved pasta water. This helps loosen it up while keeping the taste. Mix in the cheese at the end. Doing this helps the cheese melt into the sauce perfectly.

Flavor Enhancements

For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. These spices can boost the Cajun flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and brightness. It adds a nice touch and makes your dish look restaurant-style.

Pro Tips

  1. Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer than 20 minutes can intensify the flavor. If you have time, marinate it for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
  2. Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water can help adjust the sauce consistency and help it cling to the pasta better.
  3. Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a bit of cream to balance the heat.
  4. Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor. Consider adding fresh basil or cilantro for a different twist!

Variations

Substitute Proteins

You can swap chicken for shrimp or sausage. Both add great flavor. If you choose shrimp, cook it until pink and firm. For sausage, cook until browned, then mix with veggies.

Vegetarian options are easy too! Try using tofu or beyond meat. You can also use mushrooms for a meaty texture. They soak up the sauce well.

Different Pasta Types

While fettuccine is great, you can use other pasta types. Penne or rigatoni work well too. They hold sauce nicely, giving you more flavor in each bite.

Looking for gluten-free? Try chickpea or brown rice pasta. They cook similarly and are tasty.

Adding Extra Veggies

Want more veggies? Bell peppers are just the start! Add zucchini, spinach, or broccoli for color and nutrition. They all work well with the sauce.

Seasonal produce can brighten the dish. In summer, add fresh tomatoes or corn. In winter, consider kale or butternut squash. Each adds a unique twist to your meal.

Storage Info

Storing Leftovers

To store your Cajun chicken pasta, let it cool first. Use an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. Glass or plastic containers work well. Avoid using metal containers, as they might affect the flavors. Store in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option.

Reheating Guidelines

To reheat your pasta, the best method is using the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or water. This keeps the pasta moist and helps with flavor. Heat over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally to warm it evenly. You can also use a microwave if you’re short on time. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely.

Freezing Instructions

Yes, you can freeze Cajun chicken pasta! Just make sure it’s in a safe container. Use freezer bags or airtight containers. Label with the date, and it will stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. This helps keep the flavor and texture just right.

FAQs

What is Cajun chicken pasta?

Cajun chicken pasta is a creamy pasta dish. It combines spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken with pasta and colorful veggies. You can find this dish in many restaurants. Its bold flavors and creamy texture make it a favorite among many. The mix of spices and cream creates a flavor explosion in every bite.

Can I make Cajun chicken pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Cajun chicken pasta ahead of time. Make everything except the pasta and sauce first. Store the cooked chicken and veggies in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, cook the pasta and heat the sauce. This helps keep the flavors fresh and delicious.

How do I make Cajun seasoning from scratch?

Making Cajun seasoning at home is easy! Here’s a simple recipe:

– 1 tablespoon paprika

– 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 teaspoon dried thyme

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon black pepper

– 1 teaspoon salt

Mix all the spices together in a bowl. Use this mix to spice up your chicken and other dishes too!

What can I serve with Cajun chicken pasta?

To complement Cajun chicken pasta, serve:

– Garlic bread for dipping in the sauce

– A fresh green salad with vinaigrette

– Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans

These sides balance the rich flavors of the pasta and add freshness to your meal.

In this blog post, we explored making Cajun chicken pasta. We covered main ingredients, seasonings, and fresh components. You learned step-by-step how to prepare the chicken, cook the pasta, and make the sauce. We discussed tips for perfecting the dish and offered variations. Storing and reheating methods were also shared.

Try this flavorful dish soon. It’s easy to make and perfect for any tabl

- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup chicken broth - 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning - Salt and pepper to taste - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - 1 red bell pepper - 1 yellow bell pepper - 1 small onion - 2 cloves garlic - Fresh parsley for garnish Cajun chicken pasta is a dish bursting with flavor. You need a few key ingredients to make it shine. First, the chicken breasts bring protein and heartiness. I like to slice them for more flavor. Use fettuccine or linguine to soak up the creamy sauce. The sauce is where the magic happens. Heavy cream gives it richness while chicken broth adds depth. Cajun seasoning is a must for that kick of spice. Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. Fresh vegetables also play a big role. The sweet red and yellow bell peppers add crunch and color. Onions and garlic build a solid flavor base. Finally, garnish with parsley for a fresh touch. This blend of ingredients creates a dish that feels restaurant-worthy. Each bite is a flavor explosion. You’ll love how easy it is to recreate this at home! {{ingredient_image_1}} To start, take the sliced chicken breasts and place them in a bowl. Sprinkle two tablespoons of Cajun seasoning over the chicken. Toss it well to coat each piece. Let the chicken marinate for at least 20 minutes. This step is key for flavor. While the chicken marinates, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook until it gets a nice brown color. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. Make sure it cooks through, so it’s safe to eat. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add 8 ounces of fettuccine or linguine pasta. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until it is al dente. This means it should still be slightly firm. After cooking, drain the pasta but save half a cup of the pasta water. This water will help adjust the sauce later. Now it’s time to make the sauce. In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, heat one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add one small chopped onion and both a sliced red and yellow bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables until they are softened, which should take about 5 minutes. Then, stir in two minced garlic cloves and cook for one more minute. This adds a nice aroma to your dish. Next, push the veggies to one side of the skillet. Add the browned chicken back in. Pour in one cup of chicken broth and one cup of heavy cream. Stir this mixture well and let it simmer. The sauce should thicken a bit. It’s time to combine everything. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss it gently with the sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency. Finally, stir in half a cup of grated Parmesan cheese. This will make the sauce creamy and delicious. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste. Now, your Cajun Chicken Pasta is ready to serve! To get the best chicken, marinate it for at least 20 minutes. This helps the flavor soak in. You can check if the chicken is done by cutting it open. The meat should no longer be pink, and juices should run clear. This is key to a safe and tasty dish. The sauce should be creamy, not too thick. If it is too thick, add some reserved pasta water. This helps loosen it up while keeping the taste. Mix in the cheese at the end. Doing this helps the cheese melt into the sauce perfectly. For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika. These spices can boost the Cajun flavor. Garnish with fresh parsley for color and brightness. It adds a nice touch and makes your dish look restaurant-style. Pro Tips Marinate for Flavor: Allowing the chicken to marinate for longer than 20 minutes can intensify the flavor. If you have time, marinate it for up to 2 hours in the refrigerator. Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta water before draining. The starchy water can help adjust the sauce consistency and help it cling to the pasta better. Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a bit of cream to balance the heat. Fresh Herbs for Garnish: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh flavor. Consider adding fresh basil or cilantro for a different twist! {{image_2}} You can swap chicken for shrimp or sausage. Both add great flavor. If you choose shrimp, cook it until pink and firm. For sausage, cook until browned, then mix with veggies. Vegetarian options are easy too! Try using tofu or beyond meat. You can also use mushrooms for a meaty texture. They soak up the sauce well. While fettuccine is great, you can use other pasta types. Penne or rigatoni work well too. They hold sauce nicely, giving you more flavor in each bite. Looking for gluten-free? Try chickpea or brown rice pasta. They cook similarly and are tasty. Want more veggies? Bell peppers are just the start! Add zucchini, spinach, or broccoli for color and nutrition. They all work well with the sauce. Seasonal produce can brighten the dish. In summer, add fresh tomatoes or corn. In winter, consider kale or butternut squash. Each adds a unique twist to your meal. To store your Cajun chicken pasta, let it cool first. Use an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. Glass or plastic containers work well. Avoid using metal containers, as they might affect the flavors. Store in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option. To reheat your pasta, the best method is using the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or water. This keeps the pasta moist and helps with flavor. Heat over low to medium heat. Stir occasionally to warm it evenly. You can also use a microwave if you're short on time. Use a microwave-safe dish and cover it loosely. Yes, you can freeze Cajun chicken pasta! Just make sure it’s in a safe container. Use freezer bags or airtight containers. Label with the date, and it will stay good for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave. This helps keep the flavor and texture just right. Cajun chicken pasta is a creamy pasta dish. It combines spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken with pasta and colorful veggies. You can find this dish in many restaurants. Its bold flavors and creamy texture make it a favorite among many. The mix of spices and cream creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Yes, you can prepare Cajun chicken pasta ahead of time. Make everything except the pasta and sauce first. Store the cooked chicken and veggies in the fridge. When you are ready to eat, cook the pasta and heat the sauce. This helps keep the flavors fresh and delicious. Making Cajun seasoning at home is easy! Here's a simple recipe: - 1 tablespoon paprika - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper - 1 teaspoon onion powder - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 teaspoon dried thyme - 1 teaspoon dried oregano - 1 teaspoon black pepper - 1 teaspoon salt Mix all the spices together in a bowl. Use this mix to spice up your chicken and other dishes too! To complement Cajun chicken pasta, serve: - Garlic bread for dipping in the sauce - A fresh green salad with vinaigrette - Steamed veggies like broccoli or green beans These sides balance the rich flavors of the pasta and add freshness to your meal. In this blog post, we explored making Cajun chicken pasta. We covered main ingredients, seasonings, and fresh components. You learned step-by-step how to prepare the chicken, cook the pasta, and make the sauce. We discussed tips for perfecting the dish and offered variations. Storing and reheating methods were also shared. Try this flavorful dish soon. It’s easy to make and perfect for any table!

Cajun Chicken Pasta Delight

A flavorful pasta dish featuring Cajun-spiced chicken, bell peppers, and a creamy sauce.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun
Servings 4
Calories 600 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 8 ounces fettuccine or linguine pasta
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 piece red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 piece yellow bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • for garnish fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions
 

  • In a bowl, toss the sliced chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes.
  • In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the fettuccine or linguine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sliced red and yellow bell peppers, and cook until they are softened, about 5 minutes.
  • Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
  • Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the marinated chicken. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Once the chicken is cooked, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, stirring to combine and allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
  • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
  • Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Divide the Cajun Chicken Pasta among plates and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning.
Keyword cajun, chicken, creamy, dinner, pasta

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