Description
Craving something rich, spicy, and deeply satisfying? This Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream is the answer. Juicy Cajun-spiced chicken is nestled over tender penne pasta coated in a velvety garlic Parmesan cream sauce. It’s perfect for a quick dinner idea or indulgent weekend meal. Ideal for fans of easy recipes, hearty food ideas, and anyone needing a reliable dinner idea that’s ready in under an hour. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping comfort food for the week, this dish delivers on flavor, texture, and ease.
Ingredients
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
12 ounces penne pasta
2 tablespoons butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 ½ cups heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Pat the chicken dry and coat it on both sides with Cajun seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove and let rest.
3. Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and stir, scraping up brown bits.
6. Stir in grated Parmesan and let the sauce thicken. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat. Add pasta water if needed.
8. Slice the rested chicken and place on top of the pasta.
9. Drizzle with extra sauce, sprinkle with parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest, creamiest sauce.
Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy and tender.
Add a splash of pasta water to adjust the sauce’s consistency as needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
Keywords: quick dinner, cheesy pasta, garlic parmesan, creamy Cajun chicken, easy recipe