There’s a special kind of comfort that only a creamy, cheesy pasta dish can deliver. I still vividly remember the first time I made Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce. It was a chilly evening, and I wanted something hearty but with a little pizzazz to lift the spirits. As the rich aroma of garlic, butter, and Cajun spices filled the kitchen, I knew this was going to be a dish to remember. The first bite was an explosion of flavors—silky cheese, tender chicken, and a gentle kick of Cajun seasoning that warmed me from the inside out. Since that night, this recipe has become a beloved staple for weeknight dinners, date nights, and whenever we crave a cozy meal that feels indulgent but isn’t complicated.
What is Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce?
Simply put, this dish is a delightful pasta experience that combines tender chicken pieces and al dente penne pasta, all enveloped in a luscious, creamy sauce spiced with Cajun seasoning and loaded with three types of cheese: mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan. The garlic butter base infuses the sauce with its signature aroma, while the blend of cheeses provides depth, richness, and that irresistible gooey texture we all crave.
Unlike many heavy cream sauces that can feel one-note, the Cajun seasoning adds a nuanced layer of smokiness and a gentle heat that keeps your taste buds dancing without overwhelming the palate. This dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and flavor complexity, making it ideal for both family dinners and impressing guests with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce
- Comfort food with a kick: The creamy texture and cheesy goodness soothe the soul, while the Cajun seasoning adds a satisfying warmth that lifts the dish from simple to spectacular.
- Simple and quick to make: Ready in about 35 minutes, it fits perfectly into busy lifestyles without sacrificing flavor.
- Versatility at its best: It’s a blank canvas—you can swap the chicken for shrimp, add veggies like bell peppers or spinach, or adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preferences.
- A feast for the senses: The aroma, the rich texture, and the colorful garnish of parsley make this dish a feast for your eyes and nose before you even take a bite.
- Kid-friendly but adult-approved: The mild heat and cheesy flavors appeal to a wide audience, making it great for families.
- Perfect for leftovers: It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it for lunch the next day or freeze it for later.
Quick Overview
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
- Special Equipment: Large sauté pan or skillet, pot for boiling pasta
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Cook the penne pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta well and set it aside. Pro tip: Reserve about a half-cup of the pasta cooking water; it can come in handy later if you need to loosen the sauce.
2. Season the chicken
Place the bite-sized chicken pieces in a bowl and toss them with the Cajun seasoning until evenly coated. This seasoning blend will give the chicken its signature smoky, spicy flavor that complements the creamy sauce perfectly.
3. Sauté the chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. The outside should have a slight crust from the Cajun spices, adding great texture. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
4. Create the garlic butter sauce base
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the unsalted butter. When melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. The garlic is the heart of this sauce, infusing it with that classic Italian-American aroma.
5. Add the creamy liquids
Slowly pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is the base that will thicken and become rich and velvety.
6. Melt in the cheeses
Gradually add the shredded mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring continuously to melt them smoothly into the sauce. This triple cheese blend ensures depth—mozzarella for gooey stretch, cheddar for sharpness, and Parmesan for nuttiness. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
7. Combine pasta and chicken with sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained penne pasta. Toss gently but thoroughly so every piece of pasta and chicken is coated in the creamy Cajun cheese sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up for that perfect saucy consistency.
8. Garnish and serve
Sprinkle the dish generously with freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and a fresh, herbal note. Serve immediately while warm, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want a little more cheesy indulgence.
What to Serve With Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne
This dish is quite rich and filling, so pairing it with lighter sides helps balance the meal:
- Simple green salad: Toss baby spinach or mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette or balsamic dressing for a refreshing contrast.
- Roasted or steamed vegetables: Asparagus, broccoli, or green beans tossed with olive oil and garlic pair perfectly.
- Garlic bread or crusty baguette: Perfect for mopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
- Light soup: A crisp tomato or vegetable broth soup before this dish makes for a lovely multi-course meal.
Top Tips for Perfecting Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne
- Use fresh garlic: It makes a world of difference in flavor compared to pre-minced or powdered garlic.
- Don’t rush the cheese melting: Add cheeses slowly and stir on low heat to avoid curdling or separation.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste: Start with 1 tablespoon, but if you love spice, feel free to add a little more or even a dash of smoked paprika for extra depth.
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces: This ensures even cooking and a nicer presentation.
- Keep stirring: When simmering the cream and cheese, stir gently but frequently to keep the sauce smooth.
- Reserve pasta water: It’s liquid gold for adjusting sauce consistency without watering down the flavor.
- Serve immediately: Cream sauces tend to thicken and lose their silky texture when cooled, so enjoy fresh for the best experience.
Storing & Reheating Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth to loosen the sauce as needed. Avoid microwaving on high heat, which can cause the cheese sauce to separate. For longer storage, you can freeze this dish, but note the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing.
FAQs
Q: Can I use other pasta shapes?
A: Definitely! Rigatoni, rotini, or farfalle would all work well and hold the sauce nicely.
Q: Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
A: Yes, though it will change the flavor and texture. Use coconut cream or cashew cream as a substitute for heavy cream and vegan cheese alternatives. Adjust seasonings accordingly.
Q: Can I swap chicken for another protein?
A: Absolutely! Shrimp, smoked sausage, or even tofu work wonderfully in this dish.
Q: How spicy is this dish?
A: The Cajun seasoning adds mild to moderate heat. You can dial it up or down by adjusting the seasoning or adding crushed red pepper flakes.
Q: What wine pairs well with this?
A: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir complements the creamy and spicy flavors beautifully.
Conclusion
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce is the perfect dish for those days when you want comfort food with a flavorful twist. Its creamy, cheesy sauce paired with tender, Cajun-spiced chicken and perfectly cooked pasta creates a dish that’s as satisfying as it is impressive. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or hosting friends, this recipe delivers every time with minimal fuss.
PrintGarlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce
A rich and creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne tossed in a flavorful Cajun three-cheese sauce. This comforting pasta dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s packed with cheesy goodness and a spicy kick.
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing to a gentle simmer.
- Add mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Return chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
- Add cooked penne pasta and toss until fully coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American