Why Make This Recipe

Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream is a delightful dish that combines creamy flavors with a spicy kick. This recipe is perfect for those who love pasta and want something rich yet easy to prepare. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners or any occasion when you want to impress your family or friends.

How to Make Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

Ingredients:

2 large chicken breasts, sliced
2 tsp Cajun seasoning
Salt & pepper, to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cups penne pasta
3 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Directions:

Season the sliced chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Boil the penne pasta in a pot of salted water until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water.
In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring often.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and the reserved pasta water until you reach a creamy consistency. Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss to combine.
Plate the creamy pasta, top it with the Cajun chicken, and sprinkle fresh parsley on top. Serve hot!

How to Serve Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

Serve this dish warm right after cooking. It pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread. You can also add extra Parmesan cheese on top for those who love a cheesy flavor.

How to Store Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

To store leftovers, place the cooled pasta in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will last for about 3 days. To reheat, microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.

Tips to Make Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the Cajun seasoning for a few hours before cooking.
You can use different types of cheese like mozzarella or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
Don’t skip the parsley garnish; it adds a nice touch of freshness to the dish.

Variation

You can easily adapt this recipe by using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken. Adjust the Cajun seasonings to your taste, and you can also throw in some vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! You can use any pasta shape you like, such as fettuccine or fusilli.

Is this recipe spicy?
It has a mild to medium spice level due to Cajun seasoning. You can reduce the amount if you prefer less spice.

Can this dish be made ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time. Just cook the pasta right before serving.