This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food with a bold Southern kick. Picture juicy, golden-seared chicken bites seasoned in a smoky Cajun blend, nestled next to perfectly al dente penne pasta drenched in a silky, garlicky Parmesan cream sauce. It’s a flavor-packed dinner that delivers both heat and creaminess in every bite.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing guests with a satisfying meal, this dish never disappoints. The spice from the Cajun seasoning meets the rich creaminess of the sauce in perfect harmony, making this pasta irresistible. It’s a one-plate wonder that will easily become a favorite in your rotation.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring this dish to life smoothly, here are the key tools and why they matter:

Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan: This helps achieve the perfect golden sear on your chicken while locking in moisture and flavor. Cast iron, in particular, builds a great crust for Cajun seasoning.
Large Pot for Boiling Pasta: You’ll need enough space for the penne to cook evenly without sticking together.
Colander: Essential for draining the pasta while retaining a bit of starchy water to enhance the sauce.

Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for stirring the sauce gently without scratching your pan.
Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: To easily cube the chicken into uniform pieces, ensuring even cooking.

These tools keep your workflow seamless and your chicken tender, pasta perfect, and sauce creamy.

Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Lean, tender protein that soaks up the Cajun flavor beautifully.
Penne Pasta: Holds creamy sauces well with its ridged texture and tube shape.
Butter: Base of the garlic sauce and essential for richness.

Garlic (Fresh Minced): Brings bold, aromatic depth to both the chicken and sauce.
Cajun Seasoning: The heart of the flavor—spicy, smoky, and warming.
Heavy Cream: Creates the luscious creamy base of the sauce.

Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated): Adds a salty, umami punch and helps thicken the sauce.
Parsley (Chopped): For a fresh finish and subtle herbaceous note.
Salt & Black Pepper: To balance and enhance all the other flavors.

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

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Season cubed chicken generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil penne in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain using a colander.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, melt more butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine

Stir in grated Parmesan and whisk until smooth and thickened. If needed, loosen the sauce with reserved pasta water for ideal creaminess.

Step 5: Toss Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss to coat. Gently fold in the seared chicken until everything is well coated and heated through.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

How to Serve and Store Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

Serve this dish piping hot, straight from the skillet onto warm plates. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a full, comforting meal. Want to take it over the top? Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness or a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet-spicy finish.

For leftovers, let the pasta cool completely before storing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid microwaving on high to prevent the sauce from separating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Fettuccine, rotini, or rigatoni also work well. Just make sure it holds sauce nicely.

Is there a non-dairy option for the sauce?

Yes—swap the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still rich.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

You can make a quick homemade blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, and a pinch of salt.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the chicken and cook the pasta in advance. Reheat everything together with the sauce just before serving.

Can I freeze this pasta?

Freezing is not ideal due to the creamy sauce. It can separate upon thawing. Stick with refrigeration for best results.

What protein can I use instead of chicken?

Shrimp, sausage, or even tofu (for a vegetarian twist) can be great alternatives. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Kick?

If this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne has your taste buds dancing, here are a few more bold and creamy pasta recipes you might love:

Sweet Spicy Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta for a sweet-heat fusion.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta for a veggie-loaded twist.
One Skillet Spicy Garlic Butter Parmesan Steak Pasta if you’re craving beefy flavor.

One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese for a classic with a creamy upgrade.
Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce for another dreamy weeknight favorite.

Want more recipes like these? Follow along on my Pinterest: Life With Olivia where I share my daily go-to meals and new twists on comfort food classics!

Save This Recipe for Later

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

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you spice it up more? Try a protein swap? Maybe went extra cheesy?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook bolder, better meals.

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

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Description

This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce brings together tender, golden-seared Cajun chicken with a creamy, garlicky Parmesan sauce and perfectly cooked penne. It’s spicy, rich, and satisfying — a one-skillet dinner that’s bursting with flavor and family-approved.