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Cheesy Cajun Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Velveeta Sauce

Cheesy Cajun Chicken Penne in Garlic Butter Velveeta Sauce


  • Author: Emily Wilkinson
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tablespoon dried parsley or Italian herbs (for garnish)

Instructions

Step-by-Step Preparation

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Pat chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season generously on both sides with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet, let rest for a few minutes, then slice into thick strips.

Step 4: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Lower the heat and add Velveeta cheese cubes and cream cheese. Stir continuously until the cheeses are melted and smooth.

Step 6: Slowly pour in the heavy cream, whisking to combine. The sauce should begin to thicken into a creamy base.

Step 7: Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, mixing until the sauce is glossy and coats the spoon. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 8: Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce, tossing until every piece is well coated.

Step 9: Plate the dish by serving the creamy pasta on one side and the sliced Cajun chicken on the other. Sprinkle dried parsley or Italian herbs on top for garnish.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 680
  • Sodium: 760
  • Fat: 34
  • Protein: 39