Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne pasta topped with garlic mozzarella sauce
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Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Are you craving a comforting dish that packs a flavorful punch? Look no further than Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce. This delicious pasta dish combines the bold flavors of Cajun spices with creamy cheese sauce, making it a perfect meal for any day of the week.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is not only tasty but also easy to prepare. It’s great for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta will please everyone at the dinner table. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal that minimizes cleanup, making it a win-win!

How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes for extra heat

Directions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika until well coated.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a smooth roux.
  6. Slowly add the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–5 minutes, until slightly thickened.
  7. Lower the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  8. Add 1 1⁄2 cups of shredded mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is rich and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
  9. Add the cooked penne and seared chicken to the sauce. Stir to combine and coat everything evenly.
  10. Transfer the mixture to a large oven-safe baking dish or skillet. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
  11. Broil for 2–3 minutes, or until the top is melted and bubbly.
  12. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy Cajun goodness.

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

This creamy pasta dish is best served hot straight from the oven. You can pair it with a side salad or garlic bread to enhance your meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top adds a nice touch!

How to Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

To store leftovers, place the pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. It will stay fresh for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of milk if it seems too thick.

Tips to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

  • Make sure to season your chicken well for maximum flavor.
  • Feel free to adjust the Cajun seasoning to your heat preference.
  • Using freshly shredded cheese melts better than pre-packaged shredded cheese.

Variation

You can easily customize this recipe by adding vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the chicken with chickpeas or roasted vegetables.

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes! You can substitute penne with any pasta you like, such as fusilli or rotini.

Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add more Cajun seasoning or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes to increase the heat level.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the pasta dish in advance and bake it just before serving. Just skip the broiling step until you’re ready to eat.

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Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

  • Author: olivia
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: None
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Description

A comforting dish featuring tender chicken and bold Cajun flavors, topped with a creamy garlic mozzarella sauce and baked to perfection.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 pound penne pasta
  • 4 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes for extra heat

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika until well coated.
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook according to package directions until al dente, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a smooth roux.
  6. Slowly add the milk and chicken broth, whisking constantly until smooth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3–5 minutes, until slightly thickened.
  7. Lower the heat and stir in the softened cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.
  8. Add 1 1⁄2 cups of shredded mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is rich and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
  9. Add the cooked penne and seared chicken to the sauce. Stir to combine and coat everything evenly.
  10. Transfer the mixture to a large oven-safe baking dish or skillet. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese over the top.
  11. Broil for 2–3 minutes, or until the top is melted and bubbly.
  12. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy Cajun goodness.

Notes

Customize this dish by adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. Can be made ahead of time and baked before serving.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 6g
  • Sodium: 750mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: Cajun pasta, creamy pasta, chicken pasta, one-pot meal

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