Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Chicken Penne Recipe
Indulge in the delectable Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Chicken Penne Recipe, a delightful dish that promises to elevate your dinner experience. This comforting pasta dish is crafted with tender chicken and perfectly cooked penne, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce featuring three types of cheese. The bold flavors of Cajun seasoning combined with gooey mozzarella, sharp cheddar, and tangy Parmesan create a taste sensation that’s sure to impress at any family gathering or cozy night in. With its quick preparation time and minimal cleanup, you’ll love serving this flavorful meal that’s both easy to make and pleasing to the palate.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
- 1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese, divided
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- Fresh chopped parsley or herbs, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper; coat with grated Parmesan.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter with olive oil; sear chicken for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Add garlic in the last minute of cooking; remove chicken and keep warm.
- Melt remaining butter in the same skillet; sauté garlic briefly before adding cream and broth.
- Stir in cream cheese until smooth; gradually add mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan until creamy.
- Season sauce with Italian seasoning and basil; simmer for a few minutes.
- Toss cooked penne into the sauce; let sit for another minute to absorb flavors.
- Serve topped with chicken and fresh parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 350g)
- Calories: 685
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 155mg