Ingredients
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 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