Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

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This dish is the perfect marriage of bold Cajun spice and indulgent creamy comfort. Imagine tender, juicy chicken coated in smoky Cajun seasoning, seared to perfection, and paired with penne pasta that’s luxuriously coated in a velvety garlic Parmesan cream sauce. The combination is rich yet lively, with every bite offering both comfort and excitement.

Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or planning a meal to impress, this recipe delivers a restaurant-worthy plate right at home. The creaminess of the sauce balances the kick of Cajun spice beautifully, making it a crowd-pleaser for spice lovers and cream sauce enthusiasts alike.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

You’ll fall for this recipe because it offers that irresistible balance of spicy and creamy in one dish. It’s quick enough to make after a long day but special enough to serve for guests. Plus, the aroma of garlic and Parmesan filling the kitchen is nothing short of mouthwatering.

What Kind of Cajun Seasoning Works Best?

For this dish, a medium-spice Cajun blend works beautifully, giving flavor without overpowering the creamy sauce. If you like it fiery, you can add extra cayenne or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a milder touch, opt for a low-sodium Cajun seasoning so you can control the salt and heat while keeping the depth of flavor.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

A good recipe starts with the right ingredients, and this one is no exception. Each element plays a role in building the rich, flavorful profile of this dish. From the pasta that soaks up the sauce to the seasoning that gives the chicken its kick, everything works together.

• Penne pasta – The perfect pasta shape for holding onto creamy sauces.
• Chicken breast – Lean and tender, ideal for absorbing the Cajun spices.
• Cajun seasoning – Brings that smoky, spicy edge to the dish.
• Olive oil – For searing the chicken and enhancing flavor.
• Garlic cloves – Adds an aromatic depth to the cream sauce.
• Heavy cream – Creates the rich, velvety base of the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese – Melts into the cream for savory goodness.
• Butter – Helps enrich the sauce and blend flavors.
• Salt – Balances and enhances the other flavors.
• Black pepper – Adds gentle heat and complexity.

How To Make the Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and coat them generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Melt the butter, then sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted and the sauce is smooth.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne to the skillet with the cream sauce, tossing to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Add the Chicken

Slice the Cajun chicken and arrange it over the pasta. Season with salt and black pepper to taste, then toss gently so the flavors mingle.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve hot, with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

This recipe comfortably serves 4 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering. Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style presentation, or plate each portion individually for a more elegant feel. The sauce is best enjoyed fresh when it’s at its creamiest, but leftovers can be a treat the next day.

To store, transfer any cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s silky texture.

What to Serve With Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream?

Garlic Bread

A crispy, buttery side of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce.

Roasted Vegetables

Lightly seasoned roasted broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers add freshness and color.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy Caesar dressing complements the rich pasta.

Caprese Salad

Juicy tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil offer a cool, tangy counterpoint.

Steamed Green Beans

Quickly steamed green beans keep the plate balanced and bright.

Bruschetta

Toasted bread topped with tomato, garlic, and basil makes for a flavorful starter.

Grilled Zucchini

Grilled zucchini slices bring a smoky, slightly sweet note.

Antipasto Platter

A selection of cured meats, olives, and marinated vegetables can turn this into an Italian-inspired feast.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream, you might enjoy exploring these flavorful pasta dishes from Luna Meals:

• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a hearty, savory twist.
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli for a rich, earthy flavor.
• Quick Creamy Cajun Pasta if you want a faster, spiced-up dinner.
• Rattlesnake Pasta for a bold and cheesy kick.
• Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta for a comforting crowd-pleaser.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you make it extra spicy or keep it mellow? Did you add veggies or keep it classic?

I love seeing how others make these dishes their own. Questions are welcome too — let’s help each other cook smarter.

Explore beautifully curated comfort food and pasta ideas on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your next favorite dinner inspiration!

Conclusion

Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream is the perfect fusion of bold spice and creamy indulgence. It’s a dish that brings both comfort and excitement to the table, making it a reliable go-to whether you’re cooking for a quiet night in or sharing with friends.

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