Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne and cook it according to package instructions until it’s al dente, firm to the bite but fully cooked. Before draining, reserve about half a cup of the pasta water. This starchy water will be helpful later to loosen the sauce if needed. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Step 2: While your pasta is cooking, toss the chicken strips in a bowl with the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and garlic powder until they’re fully coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate.
Step 3: In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for just about 30 seconds until fragrant, be careful not to let it brown or burn. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and a splash of the reserved pasta water. Stir gently and let the sauce simmer for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 4: Turn the heat down to low and add the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir constantly until the cheeses melt into a smooth, creamy sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
Step 5: Add the cooked penne and chicken strips back into the skillet. Toss gently to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Once everything is well mixed and heated through, garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately, optionally with a little extra Parmesan sprinkled on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 780
- Sodium: 670
- Protein: 45