Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

by

A spicy, garlicky pasta dish with tender chicken and a rich, velvety sauce.

  • Serves: 4

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes

  • Dietary Badges: Nut-free, can be made lighter with half‑and‑half, adaptable for gluten‑free pasta

✅ Ingredients

(Exact amounts below)

  • Chicken breasts & penne pasta

  • Cajun seasoning & smoked paprika

  • Olive oil & butter

  • Garlic, cream, chicken broth, Parmesan, red pepper flakes

  • Salt, pepper, parsley garnish

🧑‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Boil pasta until al dente; reserve ½ cup cooking water.

  2. Season and sear chicken strips; set aside.

  3. Sauté garlic in butter; add cream and broth, then Parmesan until smooth.

  4. Toss pasta and chicken in sauce, thin with pasta water if needed.

  5. Garnish with parsley and extra cheese; serve immediately.

💡 Notes

  • Use half-and-half for a lighter sauce.

  • Make it gluten-free with GF pasta and cornstarch slurry.

  • Optional heat boost: red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Thesis:
This recipe-first format gives you everything you need—ingredients, timing, and directions upfront—so you can get cooking fast with confidence and clarity.

II. Brief Introduction

This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne is a show-stopper when you want bold flavors without spending hours in the kitchen. Juicy chicken strips coated in smoky Cajun spices mingle with perfectly cooked penne, all wrapped in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Ideal for weeknight dinners, and fancy enough for guests—no one will believe it’s ready in under 40 minutes!

III. Step-by-Step Cooking Guide

1. Cook the Pasta

  • Bring salted water to a boil, cook penne to al dente (about 11 min). Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.
    Tip: Reserve water early—it helps emulsify the sauce.

2. Sear the Chicken

  • Season chicken with Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika.

  • Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.

  • Sear chicken strips 5–6 min per batch until browned and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

  • In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.

  • Sauté minced garlic for ~30 seconds until fragrant—don’t let it burn!

  • Pour in heavy cream (or half-and-half) and chicken broth to deglaze. Let simmer 2–3 min.

  • Reduce heat to low, whisk in freshly grated Parmesan until silky.

  • Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

(Insert process photo: creamy sauce bubbling in skillet.)

4. Combine & Finish

  • Add penne and chicken to the sauce; toss to coat.

  • If too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.

  • Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

IV. Ingredient Details & Substitutions

Why These Ingredients

  • Cajun seasoning: Brings warmth and depth.

  • Smoked paprika: Adds a subtle smoky note without needing a grill.

  • Heavy cream & Parmesan: Create a rich, smooth sauce that clings to pasta.

Substitutions & Tips

  • Cream: Use half-and-half or low-fat milk plus cornstarch for lighter option.

  • Chicken: Swap for shrimp or plant-based protein like tofu.

  • Spice level: Adjust Cajun seasoning or omit red pepper flakes for mild taste.

  • Gluten-free: Use GF pasta; the sauce remains the same.

V. Variations & Presentation

  • Vegetarian twist: Swap chicken for sautéed mushrooms or roasted veggies.

  • Extra veggies: Stir in spinach, bell peppers, or roasted broccoli.

  • Flavor boost: A squeeze of lemon or splash of white wine in the sauce adds brightness.

Serving Suggestions:

  • Pair with garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad.

  • Serve alongside a chilled Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio for a cozy dinner vibe.

VI. Storage & Make-Ahead Info

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on stovetop, adding water or milk if sauce thickens.

  • Freezing: Not recommended—the cream sauce may separate. Instead, freeze uncooked pasta and reheat after thawing.

  • Make-ahead: Cook chicken and sauce separately; reheat and combine before serving for a streamlined dinner.

VII. Nutrition (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: ~650 kcal | Protein: ~35 g | Carbs: ~60 g | Fat: ~30 g

  • Diet Tags: Nut-free; can be made lighter or gluten-free with simple swaps

VIII. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this pasta dairy-free?
A: Yes! Use a dairy-free cream alternative (oat or cashew cream) and vegan Parmesan-style cheese.

Q: My sauce is too thick—what now?
A: Easy fix—stir in reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time until creamy and smooth.

Q: Can I prep this ahead?
A: Absolutely—cook the chicken and sauce earlier in the day. Reheat gently over medium-low heat and toss with fresh pasta before serving.

IX. Author’s Note

As a mom and busy home chef, I love recipes that deliver bold flavors with minimal fuss—and this one always delivers. The smoky Cajun bite, the intense garlic, and that luscious Parmesan creamy coating—it’s comfort food you’ll crave again and again.

X. Call-to-Action

Try this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne and let me know—did it hit the spot? Rate it below, snap a photo, and tag @KristyCookRecipes so I can see your delicious creations. Got ideas for veggie add-ins or spice swaps? Share them in the comments—I love hearing how you make these dishes your own!

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