Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

When you’re craving something hearty, creamy, and with a spicy kick, this Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream delivers on all fronts. It’s the kind of meal that feels restaurant-worthy but comes together easily in your kitchen. The combination of tender Cajun-seasoned chicken and penne pasta drenched in a rich garlic parmesan cream sauce is utterly irresistible.

What really sets this dish apart is the beautiful balance of spice and creaminess. The Cajun seasoning adds boldness to the chicken, while the sauce cools it down just enough with its buttery garlic undertone and cheesy depth. Every bite of penne gets coated in that velvety sauce, making this a meal you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken

This dish is a dream for pasta lovers and spice seekers alike. It’s satisfying without being overly heavy, spicy without burning your taste buds, and indulgent enough for a special occasion but easy enough for a weeknight dinner. The garlic parmesan sauce is simple yet decadent, clinging perfectly to the penne, and the Cajun chicken adds a smoky flavor with crispy golden edges.

Can I Use a Different Pasta?

Yes, you absolutely can! While penne works beautifully because of its shape and ability to hold onto sauce, other pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or even fettuccine would work well too. Just make sure it’s a type that catches and holds sauce well. The most important part is making sure your pasta is cooked al dente, so it doesn’t go mushy when mixed with the sauce.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

The ingredients in this dish bring bold flavors and comforting textures that make it so memorable. Each element plays an important role, from the pasta base to the seasoned protein and rich sauce.

• Penne Pasta
• Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts
• Cajun Seasoning
• Olive Oil
• Garlic Cloves
• Butter
• Heavy Cream
• Grated Parmesan Cheese
• Salt and Black Pepper
• Fresh Parsley (optional)

How To Make the Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized strips and season generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter and add the minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for a few minutes before stirring in the grated parmesan cheese. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked penne and Cajun chicken back into the skillet with the sauce. Stir to combine and heat through until everything is evenly coated.

Step 5: Serve

Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if using and serve warm. Get ready to enjoy a pasta dish that’s both creamy and full of zesty flavor!

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

It’s easy to fall into small traps when making a dish like this, so here are a few mistakes to avoid. First, don’t overcook the pasta; it needs to be al dente so it doesn’t become mushy once tossed with the sauce. When seasoning the chicken, be generous with the Cajun spice—it’s the main flavor driver. Make sure the pan is hot enough so you get a nice sear on the chicken pieces.

Also, don’t rush the cream sauce. Letting the garlic cook too quickly or burn will result in a bitter taste. Simmer the cream gently and give the parmesan enough time to melt completely for the silkiest finish. Finally, taste as you go. The seasoning of the sauce is just as important as the chicken itself.

How to Serve and Store This Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken

This recipe yields enough to feed 4 to 5 people generously, making it ideal for a family dinner or casual entertaining. Serve it hot, garnished with parsley and perhaps an extra dusting of parmesan.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to restore the creaminess. Avoid microwaving directly without adding moisture—the sauce can separate and dry out.

What to Serve With Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken?

Garlic Bread

Nothing pairs better with a creamy pasta than warm, buttery garlic bread for mopping up the sauce.

Caesar Salad

The crisp, tangy Caesar is the perfect counterbalance to the creamy and spicy pasta.

Steamed Broccoli

A simple veggie side like broccoli lightens up the meal and adds color to the plate.

Roasted Asparagus

A drizzle of olive oil and a squeeze of lemon make this side dish fresh and flavorful.

Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil offer a bright and cool contrast to the warm, cheesy pasta.

Grilled Zucchini

A quick sear on the grill gives zucchini that smoky depth that plays well with Cajun spice.

Buttered Peas

Mild and sweet, peas balance out the spice with their subtle freshness.

Mixed Greens with Balsamic Vinaigrette

If you prefer something even lighter, a bed of greens tossed in vinaigrette makes a refreshing choice.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If this Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream has you hungry for more creamy pasta creations, here are a few favorites from Nina Dishes that are equally satisfying:

• Marry Me Chicken Pasta: A Creamy Flavor-Packed Delight for those who love romantic comfort food.

• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you’re craving even more garlic-laced richness.

• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta for a rustic Italian spin with sausage and sun-dried tomatoes.

• Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Cheesy Rigatoni if you’re in the mood for beefy decadence.

• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce with rotini for a twist on texture.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use homemade Cajun seasoning or a store-bought blend? Did you make it extra cheesy?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook with confidence.

Explore beautifully curated comfort dinners on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next weeknight winner.

Conclusion

There’s something undeniably satisfying about creamy pasta dishes, and this one brings bold flavor to the table without overwhelming your senses. It’s cozy yet elevated, spicy yet smooth, and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just treating yourself, Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream delivers every time.

Print

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?