Cheesy Cajun Chicken Penne in Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce
If you’re searching for the ultimate comfort dish that hits every pleasure point—creamy, cheesy, spicy, and deeply satisfying—this Cheesy Cajun Chicken Penne is your new obsession. It fills the kitchen with the irresistible aroma of garlic, butter, Cajun spices, and melted cheese, creating a dish so indulgent it rivals restaurant pasta. The smoky heat of Cajun seasoning, the richness of heavy cream, and the velvety melt of mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan come together in one luxurious skillet.
⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This pasta is beloved for its bold personality. The Cajun chicken offers a flavorful kick without overpowering the creamy sauce, while the trio of cheeses gives the dish a gooey, decadent texture that clings to every piece of penne. It comes together quickly—perfect for busy weeknights—yet tastes spectacular. Hearty, comforting, and guaranteed to impress even when the cook time barely breaks 30 minutes.
🛒 Ingredients & What They Do
Chicken & Seasoning
- Chicken breasts – Lean, juicy protein that absorbs spices well.
- Cajun seasoning & smoked paprika – Add heat, smokiness, and depth.
- Salt & black pepper – Balance and enhance flavor.
- Mozzarella & Parmesan (on chicken) – Melt into the seared chicken, giving it a cheesy crust.
Sauce Base
- Butter & olive oil – Create a rich foundation for both chicken and sauce.
- Garlic – Brings aromatic warmth and savory depth.
- Heavy cream & chicken broth – Form the luxurious body of the sauce.
- Cream cheese – Helps thicken the sauce into a silky, velvety texture.
- Mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan – The dream team of meltiness, sharpness, and richness.
Pasta & Finishing
- Penne pasta – Holds the creamy sauce perfectly.
- Italian seasoning – Adds herbal notes for balance.
- Parsley – Freshens and brightens the final dish.
👨🍳 How to Make It
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Cook the Pasta
Boil penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside. (Reserve a cup of pasta water if you need to thin the sauce later.)
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Season the Chicken
Coat chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper—ensuring even coverage for maximum flavor.
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Sear to Perfection
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden and cooked through. In the last minute add half the garlic and another pat of butter. Top chicken with a sprinkle of Parmesan and mozzarella so it melts into a cheesy coating. Remove chicken and set aside.
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Create the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and sauté the remaining garlic briefly. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and grated Parmesan, stirring until the sauce is silky and thick.
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Combine It All
Stir in Italian seasoning, adjust salt and pepper to taste, then toss the cooked penne into the sauce until fully coated. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time to reach the desired consistency.
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Serve
Plate the creamy pasta, top with the cheesy Cajun chicken, and finish with chopped parsley for freshness. Serve immediately.
