Cajun Pasta

For the Cajun seasoning (see note 1):

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper

For the pasta:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion peeled and finely chopped (see note 2)
• 1 medium red bell pepper stemmed, seeded, and finely chopped
• 2 celery ribs finely chopped
• 2 links andouille sausages or Kielbasa, cut crosswise into 1-inch pieces (about 8 ounces)
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces
• 16 ounces penne pasta or any small pasta (see note 3)
• 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes undrained
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (see note 4)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• freshly grated Parmesan cheese for garnish (optional)
• fresh parsley minced, for garnish (optional)