Here’s a bold, rich, and ultra-satisfying recipe for Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in a Creamy Parmesan Sauce — spicy, savory, and silky-smooth. Perfect for dinner when you want comfort food with a kick!
🍗 Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce
🍽️ Servings: 4
⏱️ Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 25–30 mins | Total: ~45 mins
🧾 Ingredients:
For the chicken:
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2 large chicken breasts, sliced into strips or cubes
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1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
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Salt & black pepper, to taste
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 tbsp butter
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3 cloves garlic, minced
For the pasta & sauce:
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300 g (10 oz) penne pasta
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1½ cups (375 ml) heavy cream or cooking cream
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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½ cup chicken broth (or pasta water)
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½ tsp paprika (optional, for color)
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¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
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1 tbsp butter (for richness)
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Chopped parsley or green onions for garnish
👩🍳 Instructions:
🔥 1. Cook the Pasta:
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Boil penne in salted water until al dente.
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Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
🍗 2. Cook the Chicken:
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Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil + 2 tbsp butter over medium-high heat.
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Add chicken and sear until golden and cooked through (about 4–5 mins per side).
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Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
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Remove chicken and set aside (cover loosely to keep warm).
🥣 3. Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce:
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In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
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Add 1 tbsp butter, then pour in chicken broth and cream. Stir to combine.
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Add Parmesan, paprika, and red pepper flakes (if using).
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Simmer until the sauce thickens slightly (5–7 mins), stirring often.
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Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
🍝 4. Combine Everything:
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Add cooked penne and chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
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If too thick, loosen with a splash of reserved pasta water.
🌿 5. Serve:
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Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions.
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Optional: Top with extra Parmesan or a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
🔄 Optional Add-ins:
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Spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes
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Swap chicken for shrimp or add bacon for extra flavor