Imagine diving into a steamy bowl of pasta, where every bite bursts with zesty Cajun heat, savory garlic butter, and the irresistible richness of creamy Parmesan. Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is the kind of dish that wraps you in warmth and flavor, the perfect answer to a cozy weeknight dinner or an indulgent weekend meal.

This pasta is all about bold flavors that marry beautifully. The Cajun spices give the chicken a smoky, spicy kick, while the garlic butter adds depth and aroma. Pair that with perfectly cooked penne and a dreamy, creamy Parmesan sauce, and you’ve got a recipe that’s both indulgent and irresistibly comforting.

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

This dish is more than just delicious; it’s an experience. You’ll love the way the Cajun seasoning brings a burst of heat and flavor to the chicken, balanced perfectly by the smooth, creamy cheese sauce. It’s quick to make, comforting to eat, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking for two or feeding a group, this pasta delivers on every level.

What Kind of Cajun Seasoning Should I Use?

You can go with store-bought Cajun seasoning, which is quick and convenient, or make your own if you want more control over the spice level and salt content. If you’re making your own, a blend of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and a hint of black pepper does the trick beautifully. Look for a seasoning that balances heat with flavor rather than just spice.

Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

To bring out the bold and creamy balance in this dish, the ingredients are carefully chosen. Each one plays a specific role in building layers of flavor that come together in every bite.

Penne pasta
Chicken breast
Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper
Garlic cloves
Butter
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Olive oil
Parsley

How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and coat them with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Penne

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 4: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with a bit more Cajun seasoning for extra kick, if desired.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the cooked penne and stir everything together until well combined.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and a little extra Parmesan on top. Serve hot and enjoy!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. Since it’s sliced into small pieces, it cooks quickly and can dry out fast. Aim for golden, juicy bites by watching the heat and cooking time. Another pitfall is letting the garlic burn. It turns bitter and can overpower the dish, so keep it golden and fragrant. Finally, don’t rush the cream sauce. Simmer it gently to ensure a smooth texture and rich flavor.

Serving and Storing This Creamy Pasta

This dish is perfect for feeding four people generously. Serve it immediately while the sauce is velvety and warm. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to bring back that creamy texture. It doesn’t freeze well due to the dairy, so enjoy it fresh whenever possible.

What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, garlic bread is the perfect side to soak up the creamy sauce.

Caesar Salad

A crisp Caesar salad with a punchy dressing adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

The slightly charred flavor of roasted broccoli complements the Cajun spices beautifully.

Grilled Asparagus

Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus offers a bright and crunchy balance to the creamy dish.

Cornbread Muffins

If you’re in the mood for comfort, cornbread muffins bring a sweet-savory element to the table.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

Their tangy bite pairs nicely with the rich Parmesan sauce.

Sautéed Spinach

Quick and garlicky, sautéed spinach is a no-fuss, nutritious side.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

A cool and juicy salad that refreshes the palate between bites.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne, you’ll definitely want to try these other creamy and savory favorites:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add extra veggies or dial up the heat? Did you swap in rotisserie chicken?

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Conclusion

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce combines all the right elements: heat, creaminess, and heartiness. Whether you’re craving a satisfying solo meal or impressing dinner guests, this recipe brings full flavor to the table with ease.

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

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

What Kind of Cajun Seasoning Should I Use?

Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce