Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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There’s something absolutely irresistible about the bold flavors of Cajun-spiced chicken paired with a rich, creamy garlic mozzarella sauce. I’ve made this Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta countless times, and each time it turns an ordinary evening into a comforting, flavor-packed experience. The way the spice of the chicken contrasts with the velvety smoothness of the mozzarella sauce—pure magic. This dish feels indulgent, yet it’s surprisingly simple to pull off with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients.

What I love most about this recipe is how well it balances spice and creaminess. The Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a smoky, peppery edge, while the garlic mozzarella sauce hugs every penne pasta piece with cheesy comfort. Whether I’m feeding friends on the weekend or just treating myself after a long day, this pasta always hits the spot. And the best part? You don’t need to be a professional chef to nail this dish—it’s beginner-friendly but tastes like something straight off a restaurant menu.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

This dish is perfect for anyone who craves bold flavors without the hassle of complicated cooking. The spicy chicken adds excitement to every bite, while the mozzarella sauce mellows everything out with its creamy, garlicky richness. It’s an ideal recipe for weeknight dinners, cozy date nights, or even meal prep. Plus, the penne pasta holds onto the sauce like a pro, making each forkful deeply satisfying.

From the smoky char on the chicken to the way the cheese melts into the pasta—this recipe is everything comfort food should be.

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What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Creamy Cajun Chicken?

Penne pasta is my go-to for this recipe, and for good reason. Its ridged surface and hollow center are perfect for catching every drop of the creamy garlic mozzarella sauce. Each bite is rich, flavorful, and full of texture. That said, you don’t have to stick to penne. If you’re out or just want to try something different, other short pastas like rigatoni, fusilli, or farfalle will also work beautifully. The key is choosing a pasta shape that holds onto sauce well—skip the spaghetti or angel hair for this one.

Also, if you’re watching carbs or want a gluten-free option, you can easily swap in chickpea pasta or gluten-free penne and still enjoy all the flavor.

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Options for Substitutions

While the original recipe delivers an incredible balance of spice and cream, there’s definitely room for flexibility:

• Chicken: Boneless skinless chicken thighs add extra juiciness and work just as well as chicken breasts. You can also use shrimp for a seafood twist or tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Mozzarella: Don’t have mozzarella on hand? Try Monterey Jack, provolone, or even cream cheese for a creamier texture.
• Cajun Seasoning: If Cajun spice is too intense or not available, a mix of smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and cayenne will do the job.
• Pasta: As mentioned, any short pasta with ridges is a good substitute. Gluten-free or whole wheat options work great too.
• Milk/Cream: Half-and-half or evaporated milk can be used in place of heavy cream if you’re looking to lighten things up.

These swaps allow you to personalize the dish without sacrificing the core flavors that make it so comforting and bold.

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Ingredients for this Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

Each ingredient in this dish plays a role in building layers of flavor and texture—from spicy, savory chicken to the creamy, cheesy sauce that ties it all together.

• Chicken Breast: The star protein of this recipe. When seasoned with Cajun spice and seared, it develops a crisp, flavorful crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Cajun Seasoning: This bold spice blend infuses the chicken with smoky heat and southern flair. It’s what gives the dish its signature kick.
• Penne Pasta: A sturdy pasta that grabs onto the sauce perfectly. The tube shape makes every bite creamy and satisfying.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps build the base of the garlic mozzarella sauce.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic brings warmth and aroma to the sauce, enhancing its depth without overpowering.
• Heavy Cream: Essential for creating that luscious, velvety texture in the sauce. It balances the heat of the Cajun seasoning.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into the cream to form a stretchy, indulgent cheese sauce. It’s mild and creamy, perfect for binding all the flavors.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds a sharp, salty layer to the sauce that complements the mozzarella and deepens the umami profile.
• Parsley (fresh or dried): A touch of green for garnish, freshness, and color contrast—it also brightens the overall flavor.
• Olive Oil: Used to cook the chicken and prevent sticking, while adding subtle richness.
• Salt & Black Pepper: Balances the flavors and allows you to season to taste.

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Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken breasts dry, then coat them generously on both sides with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and beautifully blackened. Remove from the pan and let it rest before slicing.

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Step 2: Boil the Penne Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken (leave the brown bits—they’re full of flavor), melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes thick, smooth, and creamy.

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Step 4: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add the cooked penne directly into the sauce, stirring gently to coat every piece in the cheesy goodness. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

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Step 5: Slice and Add Chicken

Slice the rested Cajun chicken into strips and place them on top of the pasta, or mix them in if you prefer everything combined. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a fresh finish.

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How Long to Cook Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

The beauty of this dish is how quickly it comes together while still tasting like something that took hours. Here’s a breakdown of the cooking timeline:

• Chicken: Takes about 10–12 minutes to sear and cook through (5–6 minutes per side).
• Pasta: Usually cooks in 8–10 minutes to reach al dente.
• Sauce: Comes together in just 5–7 minutes once the garlic and cream are in the pan.

In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish—making this a perfect weeknight dinner that feels like a weekend indulgence.

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Tips for Perfect Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: If your chicken breasts are thick, give them a light pounding with a meat mallet. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Cajun seasoning adds a dark crust, but keep an eye on the internal temp—it should reach 165°F. Overcooked chicken = dry chicken.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Skip the jarred stuff. Freshly minced garlic gives the sauce a sharper, more vibrant flavor that’s totally worth it.
• Shred Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce gritty. Freshly grated mozzarella and parmesan melt smoother and taste better.
• Reserve Pasta Water: That starchy water is liquid gold! It helps emulsify the sauce and makes it cling beautifully to the pasta.
• Finish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or even fresh basil at the end adds brightness and makes the dish feel complete.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even simple recipes can go sideways if you’re not paying attention to the details. Here are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of when making Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta:

• Using Too Much Cajun Seasoning: It’s bold and flavorful, but overdoing it can overpower the dish—and make it too salty or spicy. Taste and adjust as needed.
• Cooking Pasta Too Early: If you boil your pasta too soon and let it sit, it may clump or overcook. Time it so it finishes just as your sauce is ready.
• Rushing the Sauce: Give the garlic a chance to bloom in the butter, and let the cream gently simmer before adding cheese. Rushing can lead to a broken or thin sauce.
• Not Letting Chicken Rest: Slicing into your chicken right after cooking causes the juices to run out. Rest it for 5 minutes before cutting to keep it moist.
• Skipping the Cheese Quality: Mozzarella and parmesan are major flavor contributors—use good-quality cheese for the best taste and texture.
• Forgetting to Stir the Pasta Into the Sauce: Don’t just pour sauce on top of pasta; mixing it in the pan allows every piece to get coated, making it taste more cohesive and creamy.

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What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta?

Pairing this rich and spicy pasta with fresh, crunchy, or slightly acidic sides helps balance the meal beautifully. Here are some of my favorites:

Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks

You can never go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread to mop up extra sauce.

Simple Arugula Salad

A peppery salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the creaminess of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus

Roasted green veggies bring texture and lightness to the plate.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil add a cool, refreshing contrast to the heat of the Cajun seasoning.

Cucumber and Red Onion Salad

Chilled, crisp, and vinegar-based—it’s a clean, crunchy side that balances out the bold flavors.

Sparkling Water with Lime or a Light White Wine

Cleanse your palate between spicy, creamy bites with something refreshing and fizzy.

Lemon Parmesan Brussels Sprouts

Roasted with lemon and cheese, these make a great savory-sour side to stand up to the pasta.

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Storage Instructions

Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta stores surprisingly well, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Just follow these tips to keep it fresh and tasty:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce if it thickens.
• Freezer: While possible, freezing this dish isn’t ideal due to the cream-based sauce, which may separate or become grainy when thawed. If you do freeze it, use an airtight freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating Tip: Avoid high heat! Warm it slowly to preserve the creamy texture and prevent the cheese from breaking or becoming oily.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s a rough breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings total). Keep in mind, actual values can vary based on specific brands and substitutions:

• Calories: ~680
• Protein: 40g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Cholesterol: 130mg
• Sodium: 900mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g

This is a satisfying, high-protein meal with a moderate amount of carbs and a rich dose of flavor—ideal as a main course that doesn’t need much else to feel complete.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Cajun chicken pasta?

The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning blend. Some are quite mild, while others have serious heat. You can always adjust the amount or use a low-sodium or mild version to suit your taste.

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Can I make this dish without heavy cream?

Yes! You can substitute half-and-half, evaporated milk, or even a mix of milk and cream cheese. Just note that the richness and texture may vary slightly.

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What’s the best way to reheat this pasta?

Reheat it slowly on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce from drying out. Stir often for an even, creamy texture.

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Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even tofu. You’ll still get plenty of flavor from the Cajun seasoning and creamy sauce.

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How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use your favorite gluten-free penne pasta and make sure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free (most are, but it’s good to double-check the label).

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Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time and store them separately. When you’re ready to serve, make the sauce fresh and combine everything in the pan.

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What protein can I use instead of chicken?

Shrimp is a fantastic alternative—it cooks quickly and pairs beautifully with Cajun spices and cream sauce. You could also use sliced sausage or plant-based meat alternatives.

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Does this pasta freeze well?

Creamy pasta doesn’t freeze perfectly due to potential sauce separation, but it can be frozen in a pinch. Just thaw slowly and stir well while reheating with added cream or milk.

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Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is one of those dishes that hits all the right notes—bold, comforting, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re craving a restaurant-style dinner at home or looking to spice up your weekly meal routine, this recipe has you covered. It’s the perfect mix of heat and creaminess, with juicy Cajun chicken and pasta that soaks up every drop of sauce.

Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back to this dish—it’s that good.

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