If you’ve ever found yourself torn between making something cozy and making something exciting, you’re not alone. This recipe was born out of that exact dilemma. It was a regular Tuesday night, and I had chicken, pasta, and a handful of random ingredients staring at me from the fridge. I didn’t want just another alfredo or tomato-based pasta. I wanted something bold. Something creamy. Something with real personality.
That’s when I reached for the Cajun seasoning.
Mix that heat with butter, garlic, and a splash of cream, and suddenly the kitchen started to smell like magic. The chicken cooked up tender and golden, the sauce turned velvety and rich, and the bell peppers added just enough crunch and color to make it pop. I tossed in some baby spinach to round it out, and just like that a new favorite was born.
This Garlic Butter Chicken Penne isn’t just a recipe. It’s a go-to for weeknight dinners when you want comfort with a kick. It’s the kind of dish that impresses without requiring hours at the stove. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters or spice lovers, this one satisfies every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s packed with bold flavor. The Cajun seasoning gives it heat, smokiness, and a savory depth that brings the whole dish to life.
- Creamy comfort in every bite. That rich cream sauce hugs the pasta beautifully without feeling too heavy.
- Colorful, hearty, and fresh. Bell peppers, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes brighten the plate and make it feel like a full, balanced meal.
- One pot = less cleanup. You don’t need a sink full of dishes to get restaurant-quality results.
- Easy to adjust. Don’t want too much heat? Cut back on the red pepper flakes or use a mild Cajun blend. Want more veggies? Toss in mushrooms or zucchini.
- Great for leftovers. It reheats well, making it perfect for lunches the next day or meal prepping ahead of time.
- Looks as good as it tastes. This is the dish to pull out when you want to impress guests without breaking a sweat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to gather for this delicious meal:
- 1.25 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 8 oz penne pasta
- For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter (remaining from above)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- To Garnish
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Preparation
Step 1: Start by cooking the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Reserve about ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, season your chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and red onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, just until they begin to soften. Then add the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the heavy cream and remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Return the chicken to the pan along with the baby spinach. Stir everything together until the spinach begins to wilt. Add the cooked pasta and a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun spice as needed.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with a wedge of lemon for a bright finish.
Variations
This Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Cajun Cream Sauce is already versatile, but there are plenty of ways to make it your own depending on dietary needs or personal preferences. Here are a few creative variations and substitutions to consider:
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Swap the chicken for tofu: Press the tofu to remove excess moisture, cut it into bite-sized cubes, and season with the Cajun seasoning before sautéing. This will still give you a hearty protein source and absorb all the flavors of the sauce.
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Add extra veggies: Replace the chicken with more colorful vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or cauliflower. These will absorb the creamy sauce beautifully while adding flavor and texture.
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Pasta swap: Use gluten-free penne or your favorite gluten-free pasta. Make sure to cook it al dente to avoid mushiness when mixed with the creamy sauce.
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Check the seasonings: Most Cajun seasoning blends are gluten-free, but always double-check the label to be sure. You can also make your own blend by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and thyme.
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Swap out dairy: Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream for a rich and creamy base, and choose a dairy-free cheese alternative like nutritional yeast or a dairy-free Parmesan. Instead of butter, try using a plant-based butter or olive oil.
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Flavor boost: Add more fresh herbs like basil and thyme to bring extra depth to the sauce, especially when eliminating dairy.
These variations ensure that the recipe can easily be tailored to fit any dietary preference or spice tolerance, all while keeping that creamy, Cajun kick that makes this dish so special.
How to Serve
This Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Cajun Cream Sauce is a one-pan meal that shines on its own, but there are plenty of ways to serve it alongside complementary dishes and beverages to elevate your dining experience.
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A fresh side salad is the perfect contrast to the creamy richness of the pasta. Try a simple mixed greens salad with a tangy lemon vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the sauce.
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For a bit more flair, serve it with a Caesar salad. The crispness of the romaine and the bite from the Parmesan cheese complement the creamy pasta beautifully.
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You can’t go wrong with a side of garlic bread. The buttery, crispy bread is great for dipping into the leftover sauce. If you want to keep things light, try a few slices of toasted baguette brushed with olive oil and a sprinkle of herbs.
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If you want to add more vegetables to the plate, roast some seasonal veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or carrots. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness and adds another layer of flavor to the meal.
Recipe Tips
This recipe is designed to be simple, but there are always ways to make the process easier or more efficient. Here are a few helpful tips to ensure perfect results every time:
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Don’t overcook the chicken: Since we’re using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, be sure to not overcook them. Chicken breasts cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent drying out. It’s always a good idea to use a meat thermometer 165°F (74°C) is the safe internal temperature.
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Save pasta water: Before draining your pasta, make sure to save a small amount of the cooking water. This starchy water will help loosen the sauce later on, ensuring it clings to the pasta better and helps thicken the sauce.
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Use freshly grated Parmesan: For the best flavor and texture, always go for freshly grated Parmesan rather than pre-grated versions. Freshly grated Parmesan has a better texture and more robust flavor.
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Make it ahead: This dish makes for a great make-ahead meal. If you’re prepping for the week, you can cook everything up to Step 4, then refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve. Reheat gently on the stovetop and add the pasta when you’re ready to eat.
Cooking Note
Here are a few key notes to keep in mind when making Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Cajun Cream Sauce:
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Avoid overcrowding the pan: When searing the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will allow the chicken to brown evenly and prevent it from steaming.
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Adjust spice levels: If you’re not sure about the level of heat, start with a smaller amount of red pepper flakes and Cajun seasoning. You can always add more later for an extra kick.
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For creamier sauce: If you find the sauce too thick when mixing in the pasta, add a splash more of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
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For a richer taste: If you’re looking for even more richness, add an extra tablespoon of butter or a bit more cream when making the sauce.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 520 per serving (this may vary based on ingredient substitutions)
- Protein: 36g
- Sodium: 850mg
Details:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is a great choice for this creamy dish, feel free to use any type of short pasta you prefer fettuccine, rigatoni, or even bowtie pasta would work perfectly.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken, sauce, and vegetables ahead of time. To reheat, warm the sauce gently on the stovetop and add the cooked pasta when ready to serve. If you store the leftovers, be aware that the pasta may absorb some of the sauce, so you might need to add a little more cream or broth when reheating to restore the creamy texture.
How can I make the sauce spicier?
If you love a bit more heat, you can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, or even add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Be sure to taste as you go to adjust the spice level to your preference.
Can I use frozen chicken?
While fresh chicken breasts work best for this recipe, you can use frozen chicken if needed. Just be sure to fully thaw the chicken first and pat it dry before cooking for the best results. Cooking frozen chicken directly could result in uneven cooking.
Conclusion
The Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Cajun Cream Sauce brings together the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, the creaminess of a rich sauce, and tender pieces of chicken for a dish that is nothing short of irresistible. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a cozy meal on a weeknight, this recipe has you covered with ease, flavor, and comfort.
The combination of creamy pasta and spiced chicken is satisfying on its own, but when paired with a refreshing salad, crispy bread, or a glass of wine, it becomes a truly delightful meal. Don’t be surprised if this dish becomes a new favorite in your household.
This recipe also offers plenty of room for customization, allowing you to adjust spice levels, switch up proteins, or cater to dietary preferences. It’s perfect for those who appreciate bold, creamy dishes without the hassle of multiple pans or long cook times. A few simple ingredients come together to create a meal that’s both comforting and exciting to the taste buds.
So, whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this Cajun-inspired pasta dish is one you’ll want to add to your regular dinner rotation. Enjoy it with your loved ones or keep it for yourself either way, it’s sure to leave everyone satisfied and asking for seconds!
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Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Cajun Cream Sauce
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1.25 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
- 8 oz penne pasta
- For the Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter (remaining from above)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- To Garnish
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- Lemon wedges for serving
Instructions
Step 1: Start by cooking the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente, according to the package instructions. Reserve about ¼ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, season your chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and red onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, just until they begin to soften. Then add the garlic and sun-dried tomatoes, cooking for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 4: Lower the heat to medium. Stir in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the heavy cream and remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, then stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
Step 5: Return the chicken to the pan along with the baby spinach. Stir everything together until the spinach begins to wilt. Add the cooked pasta and a splash of the reserved pasta water if the sauce needs loosening. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun spice as needed.
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with a wedge of lemon for a bright finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 520
- Sodium: 850
- Protein: 36