If you’re craving a dish that combines bold spices with creamy indulgence, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella Recipe is exactly what you need. With tender, juicy chicken seasoned to perfection and a luscious sauce that hugs every bite of al dente penne, this dish delivers a mouthwatering balance of smoky Cajun heat and rich, cheesy goodness. Each forkful is a celebration of comforting flavors that come together effortlessly, making it a perfect weeknight favorite or a crowd-pleaser for your next dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet essential, carefully chosen to create a perfect harmony of flavors, textures, and colors. Every element plays a part, from the punchy Cajun seasoning to the creamy blend of cheeses that elevate this dish beyond ordinary pasta dinners.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that soaks up the Cajun spice beautifully while staying tender.
- 8 ounces penne pasta: Its sturdy shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly for every bite.
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning: Adds a smoky, spicy kick that awakens the flavors.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses a rich, aromatic base to the sauce for depth and warmth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for searing chicken to a golden perfection with a subtle fruity note.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: Brings richness and helps mellow the garlic’s sharpness.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that luxuriously smooth and silky sauce that clings to pasta.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully, lending gooey creaminess and mild flavor.
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty sharpness that brightens the sauce.
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley: Offers a fresh crunch and visually vibrant finish.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Season perfectly to balance the spices and enrich the overall flavor.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cooking the penne pasta until just al dente ensures it has the perfect bite without becoming mushy, allowing it to soak up the creamy sauce without getting lost in it. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside so it’s ready to be tossed later in the sauce.
Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken
Pat your chicken breasts dry to get that irresistible golden crust. Generously season both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper—this combination is what gives the chicken its bold flavor profile. Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for about 4 to 5 minutes per side. The goal is a beautifully caramelized exterior while locking in juiciness. When done, remove the chicken and let it rest to retain its moisture before slicing into tender strips.
Step 3: Create the Creamy Garlic Sauce
Lower the heat to medium in the same skillet to preserve all those flavorful browned bits left from the chicken. Melt the butter and toss in minced garlic, sautéing just until fragrant—this quick step releases an irresistible aroma that sets the tone for the entire dish. Pour in the heavy cream while stirring, scraping up anything stuck to the pan for extra flavor depth. Slowly add the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan, stirring constantly until a smooth, creamy sauce forms that will coat your pasta perfectly.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked penne directly into the skillet, tossing gently to ensure every piece is luxuriously coated in the spicy, cheesy sauce. Let the pasta simmer for a minute or two to marry the flavors—it’s a crucial moment where everything melds together into a perfectly balanced dish that’s not overly saucy but just right.
Step 5: Plate with Sliced Chicken and Parsley
Slice your rested chicken breasts into strips or bite-sized pieces and arrange them atop the creamy pasta. Finish the dish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, add a little more parmesan on top. This final touch brings it all together, making this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella Recipe look as tempting as it tastes.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a fantastic garnish as it introduces a pop of green and a hint of herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness. A light sprinkle of extra parmesan cheese adds texture and an extra punch of savory flavor. For a touch of heat, consider adding thinly sliced green onions or a dash of smoked paprika on top.
Side Dishes
Pairing this pasta with simple sides balances the richness of the creamy sauce. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the dish perfectly, offering a refreshing crunch. Roasted or steamed veggies such as asparagus or broccoli also provide earthiness and fiber without overwhelming the bold flavors of your Cajun pasta.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the pasta in individual shallow bowls with the chicken elegantly layered on top for a restaurant-style presentation. Drizzle a little extra olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving to brighten the flavors. You can even garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for an extra-special dinner party touch that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover pasta and chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Separating the chicken from the pasta can help maintain texture, but it’s totally fine to keep them together too. Proper storage helps preserve the creamy sauce and tender chicken.
Freezing
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella Recipe freezes well if stored properly. Use a freezer-safe container and consume within 2 months for the best taste and texture. Be mindful that cheese-based sauces may change slightly in consistency after freezing, but a gentle reheating will bring it back to a delicious state.
Reheating
When reheating, do it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the sauce from breaking or sticking. Adding a splash of milk or cream while reheating can help restore creaminess. Avoid the microwave if possible, or heat in short bursts and stir in between.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne holds the sauce exceptionally well, other shapes like fusilli, rigatoni, or farfalle would also be delicious choices that trap that creamy Cajun goodness.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this pasta?
The spice level depends on your seasoning blend, but generally, it offers a medium heat with a smoky, earthy flavor. You can easily adjust the amount to suit your spice preference, adding more for a kick or less for a milder dish.
Is this dish suitable for freezing and reheating?
Yes, this creamy pasta freezes well if stored in a suitable container, and reheated carefully to maintain texture. Just be aware that the sauce may separate slightly, so gentle heating and stirring are key to bringing it back to creamy perfection.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
You can try using half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. For the ultimate creamy texture, heavy cream is the best choice, but lighter dairy options work if you’re aiming for a less indulgent dish.
How do I make sure the chicken stays juicy?
Patting the chicken dry before seasoning and not overcooking are essential steps. Searing over medium-high heat to develop a golden crust and letting it rest after cooking so the juices redistribute helps keep it tender and juicy.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a pasta dish that feels both indulgent and comforting, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella Recipe is a must-try. It’s bursting with flavor, quick enough for weeknights, and impressive enough to share with friends. So go ahead, bring a little Cajun spice and creamy delight into your kitchen and watch how this recipe becomes an instant favorite in your home!
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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful, comforting dish featuring tender Cajun-seasoned chicken breasts served over penne pasta tossed in a rich and creamy sauce made with garlic, heavy cream, mozzarella, and parmesan cheese. Garnished with fresh parsley, this recipe offers a perfect balance of spicy, cheesy, and savory flavors, ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 8 ounces penne pasta
Sauce
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
- Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 4–5 minutes per side until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.
- Make the creamy sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to medium. Add the butter and minced garlic to the skillet and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and stir thoroughly, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Add the shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese, stirring constantly until the cheeses have melted completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the sauce and toss to coat the pasta evenly. Let it simmer on low heat for 1–2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Slice the rested chicken breasts and arrange the slices over the creamy pasta. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and, if desired, an extra sprinkle of parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for best taste.
Notes
- To adjust spiciness, increase or decrease the Cajun seasoning amount.
- Use freshly grated parmesan and mozzarella for the best melting and flavor.
- Resting the chicken after cooking helps retain juicy texture.
- Leftover sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and gently reheated.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though sauce may be less thick.
