Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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This dish wraps cozy comfort and bold flavor into one rich and creamy plate. Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce combines spicy, savory chicken with tender pasta, all hugged by a silky sauce that balances heat and creaminess like a dream. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this pasta checks every box.

What makes it so special? It’s the Cajun spices that kick up the flavor, paired with garlic and melted mozzarella that melt into the cream for a velvety finish. It’s one of those dishes that feels indulgent without being complicated—quick enough for busy evenings but fancy enough to satisfy any pasta lover’s cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

This recipe delivers restaurant-style quality right from your kitchen. The spice level is easily adjustable, and it pairs well with so many side dishes that you can make it a full-on meal effortlessly. Plus, the mozzarella garlic sauce coats every piece of penne so well that each bite is flavor-packed and satisfying.

You’ll love the versatility—swap in shrimp, sausage, or veggies to make it your own. And cleanup is a breeze if you keep everything in one skillet.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Penne pasta is perfect for this dish because its tube shape holds onto the sauce beautifully, giving you bursts of flavor in every bite. But if you’re out of penne, rigatoni or fusilli work just as well. The important thing is to use a pasta that can trap that creamy Cajun garlic mozzarella sauce and carry it straight to your taste buds.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

The bold flavors of this pasta rely on just a handful of essential ingredients, each playing a crucial role in the final flavor and texture. From the spicy warmth of Cajun seasoning to the luscious melt of mozzarella, these ingredients create a pasta dish that’s rich, hearty, and hard to forget.

• Chicken breasts
• Penne pasta
• Cajun seasoning
• Garlic cloves
• Heavy cream
• Mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil
• Salt and black pepper
• Butter

How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Generously coat the chicken breasts in Cajun seasoning, making sure each piece is well covered. In a hot skillet with olive oil and a bit of butter, sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

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 Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet, melt a bit of butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stir, and let it simmer for a few minutes. Slowly add shredded mozzarella, stirring continuously until it melts into a smooth, creamy sauce.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Slice the cooked chicken and add it back to the skillet along with the cooked penne. Toss everything gently so the pasta is well coated in sauce and the chicken is evenly distributed.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Season with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or extra cheese if desired.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

It’s easy to get excited when whipping up a flavorful pasta dish like this, but there are a few things to avoid. Overcooking the chicken is the most common mistake—you want it juicy and tender, not dry. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken so it sears nicely and locks in moisture.

Another common slip is using low-fat cream or skipping the mozzarella. The sauce depends on full-fat ingredients to achieve that luscious texture. And don’t rush the melting process—let the cheese incorporate slowly to avoid clumping.

Lastly, taste as you go. Cajun seasoning can vary in spice level, so adjust according to your preference and don’t forget to balance it out with salt.

Serving and Storing This Pasta Dish

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta serves 4 to 6 people generously, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Serve it straight from the skillet while the sauce is warm and silky. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad to balance the richness.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s consistency.

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Its crunchy, buttery texture complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine and tangy dressing lighten up the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Vegetables

Try zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a touch of earthiness.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet, charred corn brings a fun contrast to the Cajun spice.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

A refreshing and juicy combo to cool the heat.

Sautéed Spinach with Garlic

Adds a nutrient-rich green element that blends perfectly.

White Wine

A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio elevates the experience.

Fresh Fruit Platter

End the meal with something light and sweet to cleanse your palate.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta, you’ll definitely want to try these other comfort-packed pasta favorites:

• Marry Me Chicken Pasta for a romantic twist on creamy chicken dishes.
• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts if you love garlic-forward flavors and tender chicken.
• Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta loaded with savory sausage and sun-dried tomato goodness.
• Cheese Shrimp Penne Pasta with Spinach for a seafood spin that’s every bit as decadent.
• Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti when you want to set it and forget it but still eat well.

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 dial up the Cajun heat or add your own twist with extra cheese or veggies?

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

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Nina Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is the kind of dish that brings bold, heartwarming comfort to the table. Easy enough for weeknights and indulgent enough for special occasions, it delivers spice, richness, and satisfaction in every bite. Whether you follow the recipe to the letter or make it your own with little additions, this pasta promises to be a keeper in your rotation.

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