Description
This Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream recipe is a creamy, spicy, and indulgent pasta dinner featuring bold Cajun-spiced chicken, garlic parmesan sauce, and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s easy, satisfying, and packed with flavor. Ideal for lovers of comfort food, pasta dishes, and one-pan meals.
Ingredients
1 lb penne pasta
2 large chicken breasts
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
2 tbsp olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup grated parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
2 tbsp butter
½ tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Season chicken breasts generously on both sides with Cajun seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5–6 minutes per side. Remove and let rest.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In the same skillet used for chicken, reduce heat and add butter. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a light simmer.
6. Gradually whisk in parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
7. Add drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
8. Slice the rested chicken and place over the creamy pasta.
9. Simmer for a minute to let flavors meld.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional parmesan before serving.
Notes
Use chicken thighs if you prefer juicier meat.
To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to bring back creaminess.
Freshly grated cheese melts smoother than pre-shredded.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 745
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 165mg