I can still taste the delicious aroma of Cajun spices wafting through my kitchen from the other night when I made this dish. Cooking for my family is always a joy, but there’s something special about a creamy pasta dish that pulls everyone together at the dinner table. The Cajun Garlic Chicken Penne with Parmesan Cheese Sauce has become a weekly staple because it’s not just tasty but quick to prepare. I started making this on Sunday nights when my freezer was empty, and I needed something satisfying yet uncomplicated. Throughout this recipe, you’ll find that each bite is a creamy embrace of flavor, packed with tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta. Let’s get started on a dinner the whole family will love. You may also find Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bowtie Pasta In Three Cheese Cajun Sauce useful.
Kitchen Essentials You’ll Need
To whip up this delicious Cajun Garlic Chicken Penne, you’ll need some simple kitchen tools: You may also find Cheesy Penne And Cajun Chicken In Garlic Parmesan Cream useful.
- Heavy bottomed skillet: Great for even cooking and caramelizing the chicken nicely.
- Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta to perfection without overcrowding.
- Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure precise measurements of the various ingredients.
- Whisk: Helps to create a smooth and creamy sauce when combining the heavy cream and cream cheese.
- Strainer: Ideal for draining the pasta once it’s cooked.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Cajun Garlic Chicken Penne with Parmesan Cheese Sauce is a fantastic choice for family dinners.
- Flavor-packed: The combination of Cajun spices with creamy cheese creates a rich, savory flavor profile.
- Quick and easy: This recipe takes less than 35 minutes to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Family-friendly: Picky eaters and all ages will love digging into this cheesy pasta dish.
- Versatile recipe: You can easily modify it with various ingredients to match your preferences, making it a go-to meal. Check out this variation on chicken penne for more ideas.
Cajun Garlic Chicken Penne with Parmesan Cheese Sauce Ingredients
This recipe calls for the following ingredients to bring the flavors together beautifully:
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken bites (boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
These ingredients create a robust and creamy base, confirming the classic creamy sauce’s integrity and delight. The chicken provides protein and a satisfying bite, while the combination of three cheeses — Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar — adds depth and richness to the dish.
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ALT: A bowl of Cajun Garlic Chicken Penne, garnished with fresh parsley.
Step-by-Step Instructions
This Cajun Garlic Chicken Penne takes only about 35 minutes to prepare and is easy to throw together. Follow these steps for a hassle-free cooking experience:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until just tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until lightly golden and fully cooked through, then transfer to a plate.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook briefly until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring gently while lifting the flavorful bits from the pan — this step is called deglazing.
- Add the heavy cream and cream cheese, whisking until the mixture becomes smooth.
- Stir in the Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar, continuing to mix until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and half of the parsley, stirring to combine the flavors.
- Add the chicken back into the sauce and stir to coat thoroughly.
- Add the cooked penne to the skillet and gently toss until every piece is covered in the delicious sauce. Allow it to sit over low heat for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Finish with the remaining parsley and serve warm.
Fun Variations You Can Try
One of the wonderful aspects of this dish is its flexibility. Adjust the recipe to match your taste preferences or dietary needs:
- Swap the penne for whole wheat pasta for added fiber and a nutty flavor.
- Replace the chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- Use low-fat cream cheese and heavy cream for a lighter version without sacrificing the creamy texture.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini.
- If you like a bit of heat, mix in some diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce.
If you’re looking for another great chicken recipe, check out this cheesy garlic Cajun chicken penne.
How I Love to Serve It
This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner and can be served in various delightful ways. I love plating the Cajun Garlic Chicken Penne in a large, shallow bowl, garnished with extra parsley for a pop of color.
Pair it with:
- Garlic bread to soak up all the creamy sauce.
- A light mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Roasted vegetables for a healthy touch.
- A refreshing lemonade or iced tea to cool the palate.
You might also enjoy serving this meal with my garlic butter chicken recipe.
Helpful Tips from My Kitchen
Cooking can sometimes be a bit tricky, but these tips will help you master this dish effortlessly:
- Ensure the chicken is cooked through by cutting into a piece and checking that it’s no longer pink in the center.
- Taste and adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preference; start light and add more if desired.
- When boiling pasta, avoid overcooking as it will continue to cook in the sauce later.
- For a creamier sauce, whisk thoroughly to prevent lumps from forming with the cream cheese.
- This dish can be made ahead; simply reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if it thickens too much.
After making this recipe every week for a year, I figured out that letting the pasta sit in the sauce for a few minutes allows every flavor to come together beautifully.
Important Cooking Reminders
As with any chicken dish, follow these cooking reminders to ensure safety and enjoyment:
- Cook chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F for safe consumption.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days in an airtight container.
- If freezing, place in a freezer-safe container for 2-3 months.
- Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a bit of cream to maintain its creamy consistency.
- Common mistakes include not seasoning enough or overcooking the chicken.
For more information on safe cooking temperatures, take a look at this USDA resource on safe minimum cooking temperatures.
Nutritional Information (Estimated)
Each serving of this indulgent dish is approximately 575 calories, making it a satisfying meal that won’t leave you hungry.
- Calories: 575
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fat: 28g
- Protein: 34g
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
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ALT: A close-up of a bowl of Cajun Garlic Chicken Penne, showcasing its creamy texture.
Common Questions You Might Have
Cajun Garlic Chicken Penne is a fantastic dish to make, and you may have some questions before you get started.
What should I do if I have leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to retain its creaminess.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute penne with your favorite pasta shape. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep! Just store the individual servings in airtight containers and reheat for quick lunches or dinners.
Conclusion
The Cajun Garlic Chicken Penne with Parmesan Cheese Sauce has quickly become a beloved recipe in my home, offering a delightful blend of creamy and spicy flavors. It’s a comforting meal that brings back memories of family dinners filled with laughter and warmth. This one’s been in my dinner rotation for years because it’s not just delicious but also quick to whip up after a long day. I made this after a busy weekend, and it brought us all together around the dinner table. I invite you to make it for your loved ones, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in your house as well.
For more inspiration, take a look at these recipes for Cajun chicken pasta from other great sources: Sugar Spun Run, The Cooking Jar, and Natasha’s Kitchen.
Print
Cajun Garlic Chicken Penne with Parmesan Cheese Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Chicken
Description
A creamy pasta dish that combines Cajun spices with tender chicken and rich cheeses, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1 1/2 pounds chicken bites (boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until just tender, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until lightly golden and fully cooked through, then transfer to a plate.
- Lower the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook briefly until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth, stirring gently while lifting the flavorful bits from the pan.
- Add the heavy cream and cream cheese, whisking until the mixture becomes smooth.
- Stir in the Parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar, continuing to mix until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and half of the parsley, stirring to combine.
- Add the chicken back into the sauce and stir to coat thoroughly.
- Add the cooked penne to the skillet and gently toss until every piece is covered in the sauce. Allow it to sit over low heat for a couple of minutes.
- Finish with the remaining parsley and serve warm.
Notes
This dish can be made ahead; simply reheat it gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream if it thickens too much.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 575
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: cajun, chicken, pasta, creamy, family dinner, quick meal