Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

 

Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Servings:4

Calories: 800 per serving

Ingredients:

1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

12 oz penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

½ teaspoon smoked paprika

Salt and pepper, to taste

1½ cups heavy cream

½ cup chicken broth

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

2 oz cream cheese (for extra creaminess)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Cook the Penne: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water for later.

2. Season and Sear the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.

3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream, letting it simmer gently.

4. Add the Cheeses: Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese until it melts smoothly. Then add Parmesan and mozzarella cheese. Keep stirring until the sauce becomes thick, creamy, and velvety. If it’s too thick, stir in a little reserved pasta water.

5. Return the cooked chicken and penne to the skillet. Toss gently until everything is fully coated in the rich garlic Parmesan sauce.

6. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top and serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired. Get ready for a super cheesy, spicy, and satisfying dish everyone will love!