🌶️ Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Quick Description:
Spicy Cajun chicken meets a velvety garlic-Parmesan sauce in this irresistible penne pasta dish. It’s bold, buttery, and ready in 35 minutes—perfect for weeknight indulgence or a cozy dinner for two that tastes like five-star comfort food.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

• Servings: 4

• Calories per Serving: ~620 kcal

• Dietary Badges: High-Protein, Comfort Food, Crowd-Pleaser

✅ Ingredients

For the Chicken & Pasta:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips

• 8 oz penne pasta (or your favorite short pasta)

• 2 Tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 Tbsp olive oil

• 2 Tbsp unsalted butter

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce:

• 3 Tbsp unsalted butter

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)

• ½ cup chicken broth

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• 1 Tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

🔄 Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2️⃣ Sear the Cajun Chicken

In a bowl, toss sliced chicken with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 Tbsp butter over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

3️⃣ Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt 3 Tbsp butter over medium heat.
Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pan.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes. Lower heat, then whisk in Parmesan until smooth.
Season with red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.

4️⃣ Combine & Serve

Add the cooked penne and seared chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat evenly in sauce. Thin with a splash of pasta water if needed.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy!

Introduction

This is the kind of pasta I turn to when I need something extra. Cajun seasoning brings the bold, the garlic butter softens the heat, and the creamy Parmesan sauce wraps it all up like a silky, cheesy hug. One bite in, and you’ll wonder why you ever settled for basic pasta nights.

I first made this for a weekend dinner with friends—and let’s just say it stopped conversation. Now it’s a regular in our weeknight rotation (and yes, my kids call it “spicy chicken alfredo”).

🔍 Kristy’s Cooking Tips

1. Use Fresh Parmesan

Pre-shredded cheese can clump or separate in sauce. Grate your own for the best melt and depth of flavor.

2. Balance the Spice

Taste your Cajun blend—some are saltier than others. Adjust seasoning accordingly and skip added salt if needed.

3. Control Sauce Thickness

Too thick? Add reserved pasta water. Too thin? Simmer 2 more minutes and stir constantly.

💡 Want to lighten it up? Use half-and-half or plain Greek yogurt (off heat) for a protein-rich, lighter version.

Ingredient Swaps & Customizations

Flavor Variations & Pairings

Try This:

• Extra Heat: Add cayenne or hot sauce to the sauce.

• Veggie Boost: Stir in baby spinach or roasted red peppers before serving.

• Lemon Touch: Add 1 tsp lemon zest to the sauce for brightness.

Pair With:

• Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks

• Crisp romaine Caesar or mixed greens salad

• A glass of chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio

Storage & Reheating

• Fridge: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.

• Reheat: Warm on stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.

• Freezer: Sauce texture may change—best enjoyed fresh.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approx.)

• Calories: 620

• Protein: 38g

• Carbs: 44g

• Fat: 34g (Sat: 19g)

• Fiber: 3g

• Sodium: 640mg

• W-W Points: 9–11 (adjust based on dairy and oil used)

FAQs

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes—just season and warm in the sauce for the last few minutes.

Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: Yes, but the sauce will be thinner. Add 1 Tbsp flour or cornstarch slurry for thickness.

Q: Is it too spicy for kids?
A: Use mild Cajun seasoning and skip the red pepper flakes for a family-friendly version.

Q: Can I make it ahead?
A: Yes—store sauce and pasta separately for best reheating results.

Kristy’s Note

This is one of those dishes that feels like a splurge but is secretly simple. I love meals that look and taste fancy but are rooted in pantry staples and weeknight practicality. Cajun chicken and creamy pasta? It’s a match I’ll never get tired of.

More Creamy Cajun-Inspired Favorites

• Cajun Shrimp & Grits with Garlic Butter

• Spicy Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake

• Garlic Herb Butter Chicken with Parmesan Rice

• W-W-Friendly Cajun Turkey Meatballs with Zoodles

Call to Action

Craving bold comfort food? Give this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne a try and tag me @KristyCooksW-W on Instagram with your version! Did you add shrimp? Double the spice? Let me know in the comments—I love hearing your twists on my favorites! 🔥🍝💛