Imagine tender bites of chicken, coated in a smoky Cajun spice blend, seared to perfection in a sizzling garlic butter base. Now picture those savory morsels nestled into perfectly cooked penne pasta, all enveloped in a rich and silky Parmesan cream sauce. This dish delivers a punch of bold flavor and luscious creaminess in every single forkful.

The magic here is the way each element plays together: the spice warms the palate, the butter adds a mellow richness, and the cream sauce ties it all together in luxurious harmony. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight treat or serving guests, this pasta is guaranteed to draw compliments and maybe even requests for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

It’s a flavor powerhouse. The Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a beautiful golden crust with just the right amount of heat. The garlic butter base adds a depth of savory comfort, while the Parmesan cream sauce gives the whole dish a silky, indulgent texture. It’s one of those meals that tastes like it took hours to make but comes together quickly and easily.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Penne is the star here for a reason — its tubular shape holds onto every drop of the creamy sauce, making sure you get the perfect bite every time. If penne isn’t your favorite, rigatoni or even rotini can work beautifully, but the goal is to use a pasta with ridges or curves to capture the sauce and seasoning perfectly.

Ingredients for Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

This recipe thrives on a balance of heat, creaminess, and savory depth. Every ingredient plays its part in creating that irresistible harmony of flavors.

Chicken breast – Lean, tender protein that absorbs all the Cajun spices.
Penne pasta – Perfect for catching the creamy sauce in every bite.
Cajun seasoning – Brings warmth, smokiness, and a hint of spice.
Butter – Adds rich, velvety flavor to the chicken and sauce.
Garlic – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
Heavy cream – The base for the luscious Parmesan sauce.
Parmesan cheese – Provides a nutty, salty finish that blends into the cream.
Olive oil – Helps sear the chicken to a golden crust.
Salt and pepper – Simple essentials to balance the flavors.
Fresh parsley – For a pop of color and freshness.

How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Slice chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and toss them generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook until golden brown on all sides and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Reserve a cup of pasta water, then drain the rest.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt more butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and stir, letting it gently simmer. Add freshly grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce thickens. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan if you’re feeling indulgent. Serve immediately while warm and creamy.

Serving and Storing Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

This pasta is best enjoyed fresh off the stove when the sauce is silky and the chicken is tender. It comfortably serves 4 to 5 people, making it ideal for a cozy family dinner or a small gathering with friends. If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy texture.

What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce?

Garlic Bread

Warm, buttery garlic bread is the perfect vehicle for scooping up every bit of that luscious sauce.

Roasted Asparagus

Its fresh, earthy bite balances the richness of the pasta.

Classic Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons adds a refreshing contrast.

Grilled Zucchini

Smoky grilled zucchini slices complement the Cajun spices in the chicken.

Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offer a cool, juicy counterpoint.

Lemon Butter Green Beans

Bright and zesty, they lighten the meal while keeping it flavorful.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy, buttery mushrooms enhance the savory profile of the dish.

Oven-Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their caramelized edges and slight bitterness balance the creamy, spicy pasta beautifully.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce, you’ll probably enjoy these other comforting pasta creations from Janet Dishes:

Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta with a fresh, tangy twist.
One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni for a rich and hearty dinner.
Tuscan Chicken Pasta bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta if you’re craving a seafood version with the same bold spice.
Garlic Butter Chicken Balls Creamy Parmesan Pasta for a fun, bite-sized variation.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it any time.

And once you’ve made it, tell me how it turned out! Did you go all-in with the spice or keep it mild? Did you add extra cheese or sneak in some veggies?

I love hearing how others bring their own flair to these dishes. Your tips and tweaks could inspire someone else’s next favorite meal.

Explore beautifully curated pasta and dinner recipes on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new weeknight go-to!

Conclusion

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is the perfect balance of bold and comforting flavors. It’s a dish that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly simple to make, making it a winner for both busy weeknights and special occasions. With its tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a kick of Cajun spice, this pasta will easily earn a regular spot in your recipe rotation.