There’s something irresistible about creamy pasta dishes, and this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is no exception. This recipe delivers bold flavor in every bite, combining the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning with the smooth richness of garlic butter and cream. It’s hearty, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weekday dinner or preparing something special for guests, this dish never fails to impress.
What Makes Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne So Special?
This pasta dish offers the perfect balance between creamy indulgence and vibrant spice. The Cajun seasoning brings smokiness and heat, while the garlic butter base infuses every ingredient with depth. Add to that tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and melty Parmesan, and you’ve got a plate that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s one of those meals you’ll find yourself craving again and again.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Optional: red pepper flakes for garnish or extra heat
How to Make Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a small cup of pasta water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken pieces and season them with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 6–8 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and golden on the outside. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic brown.
Pour in the heavy cream and stir continuously until it starts to simmer. Then, gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Step 4: Combine the Ingredients
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained penne pasta. Stir everything together gently until the pasta and chicken are fully coated in the creamy Cajun garlic butter sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top. If you like a bit of extra heat, you can add red pepper flakes as well. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, spicy bite.
Tips for the Best Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne
- Don’t skip the fresh Parmesan. Freshly grated cheese melts better and adds more flavor than pre-shredded varieties.
- Adjust the spice. Cajun seasoning varies by brand, so start with less and add more as needed.
- Use high-quality chicken. Boneless skinless chicken breasts work best, but thighs can be used for a richer texture.
- Cream vs. milk. Heavy cream creates the creamiest sauce. Avoid using milk, as it will produce a thinner, less luxurious result.
- Cook pasta al dente. Slightly firm pasta holds up better in creamy sauces and reheats more nicely.
Variations to Try
Want to experiment? Here are a few tasty variations to this classic recipe:
- Add vegetables: Sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes would add color and extra nutrients.
- Make it spicy: Add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for even more heat.
- Swap proteins: This sauce pairs beautifully with shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.
- Use another pasta: Penne is great for holding sauce, but rigatoni, fusilli, or fettuccine all work well.
Storage and Reheating
Leftovers of this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne reheat beautifully:
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Avoid freezing, as the cream sauce may separate and change texture.
What to Serve With This Pasta
This rich pasta dish is satisfying on its own, but here are a few simple pairings:
- A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the creaminess.
- Garlic bread or crusty rolls make it even more comforting.
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans add freshness.
- A glass of chilled white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the spice and cream.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the dish and reheat just before serving. Add a splash of cream when reheating to maintain a silky sauce.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make a quick blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, though you may want to reduce the Cajun seasoning if your kids are sensitive to spice.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just use your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne is one of those meals that’s both indulgent and practical — easy enough for a weeknight dinner but impressive enough for guests. Its bold spices and creamy sauce come together in harmony to create an unforgettable dish that everyone at the table will love.
Ready to cook something extraordinary tonight? Add this dish to your dinner rotation and bring a bit of Cajun flair to your kitchen.
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