Description
Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream is a bold and creamy pasta dish that delivers spicy Cajun chicken over tender penne tossed in a rich garlic parmesan sauce. It’s indulgent, comforting, and made with simple ingredients—all in under an hour.
Ingredients
2 large boneless skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
12 ounces penne pasta
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 4-6 minutes per side until cooked through and golden. Set aside to rest.
3. Meanwhile, cook penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Pour in heavy cream and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Whisk in grated parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.
7. Add cooked penne and stir to coat evenly in the sauce.
8. Slice chicken and arrange over the cheesy penne.
9. Garnish with parsley and additional parmesan if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
Use freshly grated parmesan for the smoothest and creamiest sauce texture.
To reduce the spice, mix Cajun seasoning with smoked paprika in equal parts.
Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to revive the sauce’s creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 39g
- Saturated Fat: 22g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
Keywords: Cajun pasta, garlic parmesan, cheesy penne