Description
Craving a quick dinner idea with a spicy kick and creamy twist? This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce combines bold Cajun-spiced chicken with buttery garlic and a rich, cheesy sauce — all tossed with perfectly al dente penne pasta. It’s a restaurant-worthy, easy recipe ideal for weeknight meals, romantic dinners, or cozy comfort food nights. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish is a must-try for pasta lovers and fans of flavorful food ideas. Whether you’re looking for dinner ideas or a satisfying meal prep option, this easy dinner brings the heat and comfort in one bite.
Ingredients
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
0.5 tsp salt
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic minced
1 tbsp fresh chopped parsley
12 oz penne pasta
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic minced
0.5 tsp red pepper flakes
1.5 cups heavy cream
0.5 cup chicken broth
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
salt and black pepper to taste
1 tbsp chopped parsley
0.5 cup sautéed mushrooms
0.5 cup baby spinach
grated lemon zest
Instructions
1. Pat chicken dry and toss with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt. Let it marinate for 10 minutes.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter. Add chicken in a single layer and sear for 6–8 minutes, adding garlic in the last minute. Set aside.
3. Cook penne in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic and red pepper flakes for 30 seconds. Add cream and chicken broth. Simmer 3–4 minutes.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low 2 minutes more.
6. Add cooked pasta and toss well. Use pasta water to loosen if needed.
7. Return chicken to the pan. Mix gently or keep on top for presentation.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
Let chicken rest after searing to stay juicy.
A splash of reserved pasta water brings the sauce together perfectly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sauté + Simmer
- Cuisine: Fusion (Cajun–Italian)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: creamy pasta, Cajun chicken, easy dinner, garlic butter chicken, penne recipe