Cajun garlic butter chicken penne in creamy parmesan sauce

Here’s a flavor-packed Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce recipe—spicy, creamy, and perfect for a hearty weeknight dinner.

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🍗🌶️ Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne (Serves 4)

⏱ Time

• Prep: 10 minutes

• Cook: 25 minutes

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 1–2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• Salt & black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Sauce

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

• Salt & black pepper to taste

Pasta

• 10–12 oz penne pasta

• Salt for boiling water

Optional Garnish

• Chopped parsley or basil

• Extra Parmesan

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Directions

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1. Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. Cook penne until al dente, according to package instructions.

3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.

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2. Cook the Chicken

1. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Cook chicken 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.

4. Remove chicken and set aside.

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3. Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.

2. Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds, until fragrant.

3. Pour in heavy cream and simmer 2–3 minutes.

4. Stir in Parmesan cheese and smoked paprika (if using).

5. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.

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4. Combine

1. Add cooked penne and chicken to the sauce.

2. Toss to coat evenly, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired creaminess.

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5. Serve

• Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan.

• Serve immediately with garlic bread or a side salad.

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Tips for Perfect Cajun Chicken Pasta

✔ Use freshly grated Parmesan for the creamiest sauce.
✔ Don’t overcook chicken—it will dry out.
✔ Adjust Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
✔ Reserve pasta water—it helps make the sauce silky.

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Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the sauce.

• Vegetable Boost: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or cherry tomatoes.

• Creamy Garlic Shrimp: Swap chicken for shrimp for a seafood version.

• One-Pot Version: Cook pasta directly in sauce for less cleanup.