Description

Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is a comforting, flavor-packed pasta dinner that’s perfect for quick weeknight meals or indulgent weekends. Spicy Cajun chicken strips are pan-seared to a golden crisp and served over penne pasta smothered in a silky garlic mozzarella sauce. This dish blends creamy richness with bold spice, making it one of those easy dinner recipes that feels restaurant-quality but is totally doable at home. Ideal for anyone looking for dinner ideas, comfort food, or creamy pasta dishes that satisfy every craving.

Ingredients

12 oz penne pasta

1.25 lbs boneless skinless chicken breast

2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

4 tablespoons butter

4 cloves garlic minced

1.25 cups heavy cream

1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese

0.5 teaspoon salt

0.5 teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley optional

Instructions

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

2. Slice chicken into strips and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Sear chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

4. Lower heat to medium and melt remaining butter in the same skillet. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes.

5. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until fully melted and smooth.

6. Toss cooked pasta into the sauce and stir until well coated.

7. Plate the pasta and top with sliced Cajun chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

You can swap chicken for shrimp or use half mozzarella and half cheddar for extra depth.

To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s silky texture.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 plate
Calories: 740
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 820mg
Fat: 44g
Saturated Fat: 24g
Unsaturated Fat: 17g
Trans Fat: 0.5g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 41g
Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: creamy pasta, cajun chicken pasta, easy dinner, garlic mozzarella sauce, comfort food, penne pasta recipe, quick meal ideas