Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

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This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist. Picture juicy, pan-seared Cajun chicken bites served alongside penne pasta tossed in a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce that clings to every bite. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfectly balanced with a buttery, garlicky finish that makes each forkful totally addictive.

Whether you’re cooking up a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish delivers on both taste and presentation. It’s hearty, indulgent, and incredibly satisfying without requiring fancy ingredients. The Cajun spices give the chicken a golden, caramelized crust, while the parmesan cream sauce adds a velvety texture that brings it all together.

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

This dish is everything a weeknight dinner should be: bold, creamy, and comforting. The Cajun seasoning brings a flavorful heat to the tender chicken, while the creamy parmesan sauce soothes and balances the spice.

It’s a restaurant-style meal that comes together in under 40 minutes, with no need for complicated prep or specialty tools. Plus, it’s flexible—you can use any pasta you like and even toss in some spinach or mushrooms to bulk it up.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breast works perfectly for this dish, giving you lean protein with a beautiful golden crust when seared. Chicken thighs are also a great choice if you prefer a more juicy, rich bite.

Cut your chicken into bite-sized chunks so they cook quickly and evenly, and be sure to pat them dry before seasoning to get that perfect Cajun crust when they hit the pan.

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Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a role in building layers of bold, creamy, and garlicky flavor.

• Penne Pasta: The ridges and tubes are perfect for catching the creamy sauce.
• Chicken Breast: Lean and tender, it crisps up beautifully with Cajun seasoning.
• Cajun Seasoning: Adds spicy, smoky flavor that creates the signature crust on the chicken.
• Garlic: Infuses the butter and sauce with a deep aromatic base.
• Butter: Used to cook the chicken and build the base of the creamy sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Brings the luxurious texture and richness to the Parmesan sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sharp, salty, and the key to the creamy, cheesy coating.
• Parsley (optional): A fresh herb garnish for color and brightness.
• Salt & Pepper: To balance and enhance all the flavors.

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How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat butter over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add more butter if needed, then add minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Add Cream and Parmesan

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne into the sauce and stir well to coat evenly.

Step 6: Plate with Chicken

Serve the creamy pasta with the Cajun chicken either on top or on the side. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

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Serving and Storing Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce

This dish is best served hot and fresh when the sauce is at its creamiest and the chicken is juicy and crisp. It generously feeds 4 people, making it a fantastic option for a family dinner or weekend treat.

To store leftovers, keep the chicken and pasta in separate airtight containers for up to 3 days in the fridge. Reheat the pasta gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce. The chicken can be reheated in a skillet or air fryer to maintain its crispy edges.

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

Garlic Knots

Soft, buttery garlic knots make the perfect companion to soak up the extra creamy sauce.

Arugula Salad

The peppery freshness of arugula balances the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Slightly bitter and crispy, they bring contrast and depth to the plate.

Steamed Broccoli

A simple side that adds color and nutrients without competing with the flavors.

Caesar Salad

Classic and crunchy, it’s a safe and satisfying match for creamy pasta.

Sauteed Green Beans

Adds a fresh crunch and keeps the meal feeling balanced.

White Wine

A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy sauce beautifully.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and pack more flavor, making them a great alternative in this recipe.

Is the Cajun seasoning very spicy?
It has a medium heat level. You can reduce the amount or use a mild Cajun blend if you’re sensitive to spice.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?
You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. A mix of milk and a bit of cream cheese is a better alternative if you’re looking to lighten it up.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers are great additions that blend well with the sauce.

Can this dish be made ahead of time?
You can cook the components ahead and reheat before serving, but for best texture, combine the chicken and pasta just before serving.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

Let me know in the comments if you made it extra spicy or added your favorite veggies. I love seeing how others make these dishes their own.

Explore more quick, satisfying dinner recipes and flavor-packed pasta dishes on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest and find your next favorite meal.

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Conclusion

Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce brings together bold flavor, creamy texture, and satisfying comfort in every bite. It’s quick to make, customizable, and guaranteed to become a regular part of your dinner routine. Whether you’re hosting or just feeding the family, this dish never disappoints.

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