🔥 Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce 🧄🍗🍝

If you’re craving a bold, comforting, and restaurant-quality pasta dish that’s ready in under 40 minutes, this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne is your ultimate solution. Imagine tender, Cajun-spiced chicken nestled in a luxuriously creamy Parmesan sauce, infused with rich garlic butter and perfectly tossed with al dente penne pasta. It’s a harmonious blend of spice, creaminess, and indulgence that makes every bite irresistible. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

🛒 Ingredients & Their Roles

For the Pasta & Chicken:

• 8 oz penne pasta 🍝 – Serves as the hearty base, holding the creamy sauce beautifully.
• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces 🍗 – Protein-packed, tender bites that absorb the Cajun seasoning perfectly.
• 1 tbsp olive oil 🫒 – Adds a light, fruity flavor while preventing the chicken from sticking.
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning 🌶️ – Delivers a smoky, spicy punch that defines the dish.
• ½ tsp smoked paprika – Enhances smokiness and deepens color for a visually stunning plate.
• Salt & black pepper, to taste 🧂 – Balances flavors and enhances the natural taste of the chicken.

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter 🧈 – Forms the base of the sauce, giving richness and depth.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced 🧄 – Provides aromatic punch and flavor complexity.
• 1 cup heavy cream 🥛 – Creates the silky, creamy texture that makes this pasta indulgent.
• ½ cup chicken broth 🍲 – Adds moisture and a subtle savory depth.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀 – Brings sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce naturally.
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) 🌿 – Adds freshness, color, and a hint of herbal brightness.

👨‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne pasta until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Perfectly cooked pasta ensures the sauce clings beautifully.

2️⃣ Season & Cook the Chicken

In a bowl, toss chicken with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook 6–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

3️⃣ Make the Garlic Butter Base

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 1–2 minutes, just until fragrant. Garlic in butter creates the aromatic backbone of your sauce.

4️⃣ Create the Creamy Cajun Sauce

Add a pinch of extra Cajun seasoning for boldness. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Simmer 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce begins to thicken.

5️⃣ Finish the Sauce

Reduce heat to low. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper.

6️⃣ Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken and penne pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is fully coated in the creamy Cajun garlic butter sauce.

7️⃣ Serve & Garnish

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately while hot.

💡 Pro Tips for Perfecting This Dish

• Avoid overcooking pasta – It should be al dente to soak up the sauce without becoming mushy.
• Customize heat level – Add cayenne pepper or hot sauce if you love spice.
• Add vegetables – Sautéed bell peppers or spinach can add color, nutrition, and texture.
• Protein swap – Shrimp works beautifully for a Cajun surf & turf twist.

🍽 Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette.
• Serve alongside garlic bread to scoop up every drop of sauce.
• Enjoy with a chilled white wine like Chardonnay to balance richness.

✅ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines simplicity with restaurant-level flavor. The creamy sauce, bold Cajun spices, and tender chicken create a comfort food experience that’s perfect any night of the week. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, you can serve a dish that tastes like it took hours to master—but comes together in under 40 minutes.

🔥 Final Thoughts

The Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate weeknight indulgence. Its perfectly spiced chicken, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta make it irresistible. Quick, flavorful, and visually stunning, this recipe is guaranteed to impress your family, friends, or anyone lucky enough to sit at your table.