Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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Rich, cheesy, and loaded with bold Cajun flavor, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is the ultimate comfort food for pasta lovers. Tender chicken breasts coated in smoky Cajun seasoning are pan-seared until golden, then served over penne pasta smothered in a creamy garlic-infused mozzarella sauce. Each bite is saucy, savory, and totally satisfying.

Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner at home or need a quick yet indulgent weeknight meal, this pasta delivers restaurant-quality taste without the hassle. It’s creamy without being heavy, spicy without overwhelming heat, and beautifully balanced with cheesy richness and garlicky depth.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

This dish is for anyone who craves bold flavors and creamy textures. The Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a crispy, spiced crust, while the mozzarella sauce wraps every piece of penne in silky, cheesy goodness. It’s easy to make, comforting, and totally crowd-pleasing.

Plus, it’s versatile! Swap the chicken for shrimp, add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes, or toss in extra garlic if you’re a real fan. This dish makes a perfect base for your own tasty twist.

What Kind of Mozzarella Should I Use?

Whole milk mozzarella works best for this recipe, as it melts smoothly and adds rich, creamy flavor. Fresh mozzarella can work too, but it may create a more watery sauce. Stick with block mozzarella or pre-shredded low-moisture mozzarella for a luscious, cheesy consistency that coats the pasta beautifully.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Every ingredient in this recipe adds flavor, richness, or that perfect bit of spice to make it unforgettable.

• Penne Pasta: Its ridges hold onto the sauce and give the dish hearty texture.
• Chicken Breast: Lean, juicy, and takes on the Cajun spice perfectly.
• Cajun Seasoning: The key flavor driver—smoky, spicy, and bold.
• Butter: For cooking the chicken and creating a rich base for the sauce.
• Garlic: Intensely aromatic and the heart of the sauce’s flavor.
• Heavy Cream: Adds a silky, luxurious texture to the sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into the sauce to create that creamy, stretchy goodness.
• Parmesan Cheese: Adds depth and a salty balance to the mozzarella.
• Parsley (optional): A pop of freshness and color to garnish.
• Salt & Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance the entire dish.

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How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a pot of salted water and cook the penne until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. Coat with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a hot skillet with butter, sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Saute the Garlic

In the same skillet, melt more butter and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream. Let it simmer, then add mozzarella and Parmesan. Stir until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta

Toss the cooked penne into the sauce and stir until evenly coated.

Step 6: Serve

Top the creamy pasta with sliced Cajun chicken and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

This creamy Cajun pasta is best served hot when the sauce is perfectly smooth and the chicken is fresh off the pan. It serves 4 people generously and makes a delicious centerpiece for any comfort food dinner.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce and restore the creamy texture. Avoid freezing—the mozzarella may become grainy once thawed.

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What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Garlic Breadsticks

Perfect for dipping into that rich, cheesy sauce.

Green Salad

A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Vegetables

Caramelized carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers add a colorful and tasty contrast.

Steamed Broccoli

A classic side that adds nutrients and balances out the creaminess.

Corn on the Cob

The sweetness of corn complements the Cajun spice nicely.

Grilled Asparagus

Adds a smoky flavor and a little crunch.

Sparkling Water with Lemon

Refreshing and palate-cleansing, great with creamy pasta dishes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, just warm it up in the skillet with a little butter and Cajun seasoning to add flavor before adding it to the dish.

Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning. Use mild or reduce the amount if you prefer a gentler heat.

Can I substitute half-and-half for heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce may be slightly less rich. You can also add a bit of cream cheese to thicken it up.

What type of mozzarella is best for the sauce?
Low-moisture, whole milk mozzarella works best—it melts smoothly without making the sauce watery.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Just keep the sauce and pasta separate until you’re ready to serve. Reheat gently with a splash of cream.

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I’d love to hear how you made it your own. Did you go extra cheesy? Add shrimp instead of chicken? Let us know in the comments!

Explore more comfort food pasta recipes and quick dinner ideas on Tanya Recipes on Pinterest.

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Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce brings a satisfying mix of smoky heat, cheesy comfort, and bold flavor to your plate. It’s fast enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough to serve guests. Give it a try and enjoy the perfect blend of spice and creaminess.

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