Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

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Golden-seared Cajun-spiced chicken, glazed in garlic butter, meets rich and creamy Parmesan penne pasta in this knockout dish that feels like a restaurant-quality dinner — all made in your own kitchen. The combination of bold Cajun heat, velvety cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked penne makes every bite unforgettable. This isn’t just a weeknight dinner; it’s a full-on flavor experience.

The contrast between the smoky, pan-seared chicken and the decadent cream sauce is what takes this dish to another level. It’s the perfect marriage of spice and comfort — creamy yet zesty, hearty yet smooth. Whether you’re hosting guests, impressing your partner, or just treating yourself, this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce hits every note.

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

• Bold Flavor Fusion: The Cajun seasoning adds depth, heat, and a smoky undertone, balanced beautifully by the rich creaminess of the Parmesan sauce.
• Restaurant-Quality at Home: Save money and skip the takeout — this dish rivals anything from a high-end Italian or Creole restaurant.
• Comfort Food Meets Elegance: Hearty penne pasta and juicy chicken make this filling, while the garlic butter and herbs give it a sophisticated edge.
• One-Pan Option: With a bit of kitchen organization, you can make this mostly in one skillet for easier cleanup.
• Customizable Heat: Dial the spice up or down based on your preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers are just as delicious, if not better, after the flavors soak in overnight.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Creating this dish is all about balance and timing, so having the right tools makes a big difference. Here’s what you’ll need and why:

• Large Non-Stick Skillet or Cast-Iron Pan: Essential for getting a proper sear on the chicken without sticking. Cast iron gives a perfect char and holds heat evenly — great for Cajun cooking.
• Medium Saucepan: To boil the penne pasta to al dente perfection. Using a generously salted pot ensures flavorful noodles.
• Tongs or Silicone Spatula: Helps you flip and toss the chicken without tearing it apart. You’ll also use them to stir the pasta and sauce together later.
• Garlic Press or Microplane: For fresh garlic — this tool extracts every drop of flavor.
• Whisk: Crucial for creating a smooth, lump-free Parmesan cream sauce.
• Strainer: To drain your pasta without losing heat or water quickly.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups: Precision matters when you’re balancing spices, cream, and cheese.
• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: For cleanly cubing the chicken and prepping garlic and herbs.

A bit of mise en place — having all ingredients chopped, measured, and ready — will make the cooking process smooth and stress-free.

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Preparation Tips

• Pat Chicken Dry: Moisture prevents searing. Dab your chicken cubes with paper towels before seasoning.
• Cook Pasta Slightly Under: Aim for al dente since it will continue cooking in the sauce, soaking up all that cheesy goodness.
• Use Fresh Garlic: Powdered garlic won’t bring the same aroma or flavor punch. Fresh garlic in butter? Irresistible.
• Let Chicken Rest: After cooking, let the chicken sit for 3-5 minutes before adding it to the pasta to lock in juices.
• Grate Parmesan Fresh: Pre-shredded varieties don’t melt as smoothly and may cause your sauce to clump.
• Add Pasta Water to the Sauce: A splash of starchy water helps emulsify and thicken your sauce naturally.
• Taste Before Serving: Cajun seasoning blends vary in heat, so adjust salt, spice, and herbs at the end for best results.

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Ingredients for Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Here’s everything you need to bring this creamy, spicy, savory masterpiece to life. The ingredients are simple, but each plays a crucial role in creating that rich flavor and perfect texture.

For the Cajun Chicken:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized chunks)
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to heat preference)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt (optional, depending on your Cajun mix)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Penne:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra kick)
• 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth (or reserved pasta water)
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms
• 1/2 cup baby spinach (fold in at the end for extra nutrients)
• Grated lemon zest (for brightness)

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Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken

Start by patting your chicken dry, then toss the chunks with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a touch of salt. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes to absorb the flavor. This step ensures every bite is well-seasoned and bold.

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Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil and 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Sear on each side until golden and cooked through (about 6–8 minutes total). Toss in minced garlic during the last minute of cooking and stir to coat. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside, keeping it warm.

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Step 3: Boil the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add penne and cook until just al dente (usually 1 minute less than the package suggests). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

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Step 4: Make the Parmesan Cream Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the heavy cream and chicken broth (or reserved pasta water). Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

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Step 5: Add Cheese and Seasonings

Whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until smooth and creamy. Add Italian seasoning, a pinch of black pepper, and adjust salt to taste. Continue to simmer on low heat for 2 more minutes.

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Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne to the sauce, tossing to coat every noodle evenly. If needed, use a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce to your preferred consistency.

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Step 7: Reintroduce the Chicken

Place the Cajun chicken back into the skillet on top of the creamy penne. Gently mix or leave it on top for a beautiful presentation. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot.

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Notes

• Make It Your Own: This recipe is versatile — feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers to enhance texture and nutrition.
• Adjust the Heat: If you’re sensitive to spice, cut the Cajun seasoning in half or skip the red pepper flakes entirely. Prefer more heat? Add a dash of cayenne or a drizzle of hot sauce.
• Fresh Is Best: Freshly grated Parmesan makes a huge difference in the sauce’s texture. Pre-packaged cheese can be grainy or oily when melted.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cajun seasoning can darken quickly due to paprika and herbs. Don’t confuse browning with burning — sear only until cooked through, then remove it from heat.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: The reserved water is full of starch and helps bind the sauce to the pasta, making it glossy and cohesive.
• Using Cold Ingredients in Sauce: Cold cream or cheese straight from the fridge can shock the sauce, causing it to break. Let them come to room temperature before adding.
• Overcrowding the Pan: When searing chicken, give each piece space. Overcrowding causes steaming, not browning.
• Too Much Salt Too Early: Cajun seasoning and Parmesan are naturally salty. Taste before adding extra salt to avoid over-seasoning.
• Burning the Garlic: Garlic cooks fast — if it burns, it turns bitter. Add it near the end of the searing and sauté steps.
• Skipping the Resting Time: Letting the cooked chicken rest before adding it back ensures juices stay locked in and the texture stays moist.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It often contains anti-caking agents that don’t melt well. Freshly grated Parmesan yields a smoother, silkier sauce.

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What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce?

This dish is rich and indulgent, so the best side options either brighten the plate or offer a refreshing contrast. Whether you’re hosting or having a cozy night in, these pairings will round out your meal beautifully.

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8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread or Parmesan Breadsticks
   A buttery side to soak up every drop of that creamy sauce. Toasted edges and soft centers pair perfectly.
2. Simple Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
   Peppery greens and a citrusy dressing cut through the richness of the sauce for a refreshing balance.
3. Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned with olive oil, salt, and pepper — these roasted veggies add texture and color to your plate.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Especially great in summer, the sweetness of corn complements the smoky Cajun flavors beautifully.
5. Sauteed Spinach with Garlic
   Quick, easy, and nutritious. It softens quickly and doesn’t compete with the boldness of the main dish.
6. Chopped Tomato and Cucumber Salad
   Fresh, cold, and crisp — this salad adds a cooling counterpoint and some acidity to balance the creaminess.
7. Crispy Oven Potatoes or Fries
   Cajun-seasoned wedges or rosemary fries keep the flavor theme going and make the meal extra hearty.
8. White Wine (Pinot Grigio or Chardonnay)
   If you’re enjoying a glass, go with a white that has a bit of acidity to stand up to the richness of the sauce.

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Storage Instructions

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce stores well and even deepens in flavor overnight. Here’s how to keep it fresh and delicious:

• Refrigerator: Allow leftovers to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Cream-based sauces can separate when frozen, but if needed, you can freeze this dish. Use a freezer-safe container and eat within 1 month. Reheat slowly over low heat, stirring frequently.
• Reheating: For best texture, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each round.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 6 servings)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	580 kcal
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	45g
Fat	30g
Saturated Fat	16g
Cholesterol	120mg
Fiber	3g
Sugar	3g
Sodium	720mg

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on exact ingredients used and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving if slightly overcooked. Just trim excess fat and adjust cook time slightly.

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2. Is there a dairy-free option for the cream sauce?

Yes — substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan for flavor.

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3. How do I make it less spicy?

Cut the Cajun seasoning by half and skip the red pepper flakes. You can also add more cream or a touch of sugar to mellow the heat.

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4. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the components (chicken and sauce) a day ahead, then combine with freshly cooked pasta when ready to serve.

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5. What pasta works best besides penne?

Fettuccine, rigatoni, or even rotini all work well — just choose a sturdy pasta that holds sauce.

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6. Can I add vegetables directly into the dish?

Definitely. Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers sautéed before the sauce stage are excellent additions.

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7. Why did my sauce turn grainy?

This can happen if you used pre-shredded cheese or added the Parmesan when the sauce was too hot. Use freshly grated cheese and stir it in off the heat or at very low simmer.

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8. Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes! Just use a larger pan and double all ingredients. Be sure to sear the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding.

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Conclusion

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort dish with a kick — smoky, creamy, hearty, and unforgettable. Whether you’re cooking to impress or just craving something cozy, this meal hits all the right notes. With flexible heat levels, protein choices, and add-in options, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. From busy weeknights to indulgent weekends, this one’s a crowd-pleaser in every way.

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