Prepare the Chicken
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken pieces, and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook for 5–7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Make the Creamy Sauce
In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter.Parmesan Cream Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, and stir to combine.
Bring to a light simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes to thicken slightly.
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until smooth and creamy.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked penne pasta to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.Cheddar Cheese Rolls
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and stir to combine everything.
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese, then serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Absolutely! While penne is perfect for catching the creamy sauce, you can also use fettuccine, rigatoni, or rotini.
Q2: What can I substitute for heavy cream?
A: You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese or even evaporated milk for a lighter version. Just note the sauce may be less rich.
Q3: How do I make it spicier?
A: Add more Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, or even a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat.
Q4: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, it stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
Q5: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and check that your chicken broth and Cajun seasoning are gluten-free.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with garlic bread, Caesar salad, or roasted vegetables.
For drinks, pair with Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing contrast.
Tips for Success
Don’t overcook the pasta – it will continue cooking slightly when tossed in the hot sauce.
Use freshly grated Parmesan – it melts better and adds more flavor than pre-packaged grated cheese.Cheddar Cheese Rolls
Deglaze the skillet with chicken broth after cooking the chicken to capture all the flavorful brown bits.
Variations
Add vegetables: Try adding spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Swap the protein: Use shrimp or sausage instead of chicken for a twist.
Make it vegetarian: Leave out the chicken and use vegetable broth with roasted veggies or tofu.
Final Thoughts
Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is a simple yet elegant meal with big flavor. Whether you’re making it for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing weekend meal, this recipe delivers comfort and richness with a touch of spice. Easy to customize, quick to prepare, and guaranteed to satisfy!
