Description
If you’re craving a bold, creamy, and absolutely indulgent dinner idea, look no further than this Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream. With golden Cajun-spiced chicken and velvety cheese sauce enveloping tender penne pasta, it’s everything you want in a satisfying and easy recipe. Perfect for those looking for comfort food, quick dinner ideas, or rich and flavorful food ideas that feel gourmet without the hassle. This dish brings restaurant-style results with home kitchen simplicity—a total weeknight win.
Ingredients
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter (for chicken)
12 oz penne pasta
2 tablespoons butter (for sauce)
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups heavy cream
1 cup whole milk
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
salt and pepper to taste
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Pat chicken dry and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Let sit for 10–15 minutes.
2. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and let rest.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds. Add flour and whisk to form a roux; cook 1 minute.
5. Gradually add heavy cream and milk while whisking until smooth. Simmer until thickened, about 3–4 minutes.
6. Stir in Parmesan and mozzarella. Mix until melted and smooth. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
7. Add drained penne to the sauce, tossing well. Use reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.
8. Slice rested chicken and serve over pasta. Garnish with parsley and drizzle with extra sauce.
Notes
Use freshly grated cheese for a smooth sauce and better flavor.
Don’t boil the sauce—keep it to a gentle simmer to avoid curdling.
Rest the chicken before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 720
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 42g
- Saturated Fat: 21g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 160mg
Keywords: easy dinner, creamy pasta, cajun chicken, comfort food, garlic parmesan