Name: Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 500g boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts; 300g penne pasta; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 3 tablespoons butter; 3 cloves garlic minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley optional

I have to admit, this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is one of those dishes I find myself making far more often than I should. It’s indulgent, rich, and full of flavor that hits all the right notes—spicy, savory, garlicky, creamy, and downright comforting. There’s something magical about the way juicy, golden-brown chicken meets that velvety parmesan sauce and al dente penne. The Cajun spices give it just the right amount of kick, and the buttery garlic infusion takes it over the top.

This is a recipe that feels like it came from your favorite restaurant, but it’s surprisingly easy to pull off at home. Whether I’m cooking for friends, meal-prepping for the week, or just treating myself to a comforting dinner after a long day, this one never fails. Plus, the smell alone is enough to make everyone come running to the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

If you’re looking for a dish that’s satisfying, bold, and absolutely packed with flavor, you’ve found it. This Cajun chicken pasta strikes the perfect balance between spicy and creamy, with juicy seared chicken, a rich parmesan sauce, and plenty of pasta to soak it all up. It’s a one-pan wonder that’s hearty enough for dinner guests, but easy enough for a weeknight meal. Whether you’re craving comfort food or just love bold flavors, this dish checks every box.

What Type of Chicken Works Best for Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne?

I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken thighs for this recipe—they stay incredibly juicy and hold up well to bold Cajun seasoning and high-heat searing. However, chicken breasts are just as delicious if you’re going for a leaner option. The key is to cut the chicken into evenly sized chunks or strips so they cook quickly and develop a golden, flavorful crust from the butter and spices. If you’re in a time crunch, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can also work in a pinch—just toss it in the pan at the end to absorb those garlic butter flavors.

Options for Substitutions

You’ve got plenty of flexibility with this dish if you want to tweak it to fit your preferences:

Pasta: Penne is classic here, but feel free to swap in rigatoni, fettuccine, or even spaghetti. Any pasta with ridges or surface texture to catch that creamy sauce works beautifully.
Protein: Shrimp is an amazing alternative to chicken—it cooks fast and pairs perfectly with Cajun spice and cream sauce. Tofu can also work well for a vegetarian twist.
Dairy-Free Option: You can sub the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or oat milk creamer, and use a dairy-free parmesan or nutritional yeast.
Spice Level: Not a fan of too much heat? Just reduce the Cajun seasoning or mix it with some smoked paprika and garlic powder for a milder flavor.
Add Veggies: Mushrooms, spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers make tasty additions to bulk it up and sneak in some veggies.

Ingredients for Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts
These are the star of the dish—juicy, tender, and packed with flavor once seared with Cajun seasoning and garlic butter.
Penne Pasta
A hearty pasta that holds onto the creamy sauce perfectly. Its tube shape gives every bite a satisfying, saucy coating.
Cajun Seasoning
Brings heat, smokiness, and boldness to the chicken. It’s what gives this dish its signature kick.
Butter
Used to sear the chicken and infuse richness into the garlic and spices. It also forms the base of the creamy sauce.
Garlic (Freshly Minced)
Essential for that deep, savory aroma and flavor that ties everything together. Don’t skimp on it.
Heavy Cream
This gives the sauce its silky, luxurious texture. It melts into the pasta and makes everything irresistibly creamy.
Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated)
Adds saltiness, nuttiness, and thickens the sauce. Freshly grated is always best for a smooth melt.
Olive Oil
Helps sear the chicken evenly without burning the butter. Adds a subtle richness.
Salt & Black Pepper
To season the dish to taste and balance the flavors of the cream and cheese.
Fresh Parsley (Optional for Garnish)
Brings a pop of color and a hint of freshness at the end. Totally optional, but a nice touch.

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by patting the chicken dry and cutting it into bite-sized pieces. Toss it with Cajun seasoning, salt, and a drizzle of olive oil. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for about 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce the heat to medium. Add a bit more butter if needed, then stir in the minced garlic. Let it cook for 30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it brown.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Parmesan Base

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Add the freshly grated parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and the sauce thickens slightly. Add a little pasta water if it gets too thick.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked penne directly into the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Return the seared chicken to the pan and mix everything together. Let it heat through for a couple of minutes so all the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired. Plate it up while it’s hot and creamy, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

How Long to Cook the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

The total cook time for this dish is about 30 to 35 minutes:

Searing the chicken takes around 8–10 minutes depending on thickness.
Boiling the pasta takes about 10–11 minutes for al dente.
Preparing the sauce and combining everything adds another 10–12 minutes.

This makes it a great option for a weeknight dinner or when you need something impressive but quick.

Tips for Perfect Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Get that golden crust on high heat but pull it off the pan as soon as it’s cooked through. Juicy chicken makes all the difference.
Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese can clump in the sauce. Freshly grated parmesan melts smoother and gives a deeper flavor.
Adjust Cajun Heat: Cajun seasoning varies by brand. Taste and add gradually if you’re spice-sensitive—or double it if you love bold heat.
Save Some Pasta Water: The starchy water helps loosen the sauce if it thickens too much when combining everything.
Stir Sauce Gently: Keep the heat on low when adding cheese and cream. Too high and the sauce could break or get grainy.
Serve Immediately: This pasta is best fresh, while the sauce is creamy and hot. If it sits too long, the sauce can thicken more than you’d like.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Using Cold Chicken: Always let your chicken come to room temperature before cooking. Cold meat lowers the pan’s heat and results in uneven cooking.
Skipping the Seasoning Step: The Cajun seasoning isn’t just for flavor—it helps create that beautiful crust on the chicken. Don’t be shy with it.
Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns fast in hot butter. Keep the heat moderate and stir constantly until just fragrant.
Adding Cheese Too Quickly: If the parmesan hits boiling cream, it can clump. Reduce the heat and stir it in slowly to melt smoothly.
Overcooking the Pasta: Al dente pasta is essential. Soft pasta won’t hold up in the sauce and may turn mushy.
Forgetting to Reserve Pasta Water: This starchy liquid is your best friend when adjusting the sauce’s texture.

What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce?

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.

Caesar Salad

A crisp, tangy side balances the richness of the pasta and adds a refreshing crunch.

Roasted Broccoli

Its slight char and earthy flavor pair well with the creamy and spicy notes in the dish.

Grilled Asparagus

Simple, light, and a little smoky—great for adding greens without overpowering the main dish.

Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil bring brightness that contrasts beautifully with the savory pasta.

Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

Keeps things healthy, flavorful, and easy on the prep.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Add texture and a hint of bitterness to balance the creamy richness of the penne.

A Glass of Chardonnay or Sparkling Water with Lime

Whether you’re sipping wine or going alcohol-free, both help refresh the palate between bites.

Storage Instructions

This pasta holds up well for leftovers, which makes it great for meal prep or next-day lunches.
Here’s how to store it properly:

Refrigerator: Transfer any cooled leftovers to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: Cream-based sauces don’t always freeze perfectly, but if needed, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave works too—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

Estimated Nutrition

Note: Nutrition values are approximate and may vary depending on brands used and exact portion sizes.

Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
Calories: 620
Protein: 38g
Carbohydrates: 47g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 16g
Cholesterol: 145mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 850mg
Category: Dinner / Main Course
Diet: Not vegetarian or vegan (contains dairy and meat)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Absolutely. Just check the label—some brands are saltier or spicier than others. You can always start with less and adjust to taste.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be quite as rich. For a dairy-free option, unsweetened coconut cream or oat milk creamer works well.

Is it okay to use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. Just skip the searing step and toss it into the sauce toward the end to warm through and absorb flavor.

How do I make it less spicy?

Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a milder blend. You can also balance the spice with extra cream or parmesan.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Definitely. Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes are delicious add-ins and blend well with the sauce.

Will gluten-free pasta work?

Yes, gluten-free penne or any sturdy pasta shape will work. Just make sure not to overcook it, as gluten-free pasta can become mushy.

How can I make the sauce thicker?

Let it simmer longer after adding the cream and cheese, or add a bit more parmesan. A spoonful of cream cheese also adds thickness and creaminess.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then cook the pasta fresh and combine everything when you’re ready to eat for best texture.

Conclusion

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce isn’t just another pasta recipe—it’s a full-blown comfort food experience. With bold spices, creamy sauce, and juicy chicken, it’s the kind of meal that satisfies cravings and impresses guests. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself to a cozy night in, this dish brings serious flavor with minimal fuss. Keep this one in your dinner rotation—you won’t regret it.