When comfort food meets a burst of bold flavors, you get this stunning dish: Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream. Creamy, cheesy pasta paired with juicy, spice-rubbed Cajun chicken, this plate is everything cozy dinners should be. It’s rich, savory, and perfect for indulging in after a long day or impressing guests with minimal effort.

Each bite is a delightful contrast between the mellow, cheesy sauce coating every piece of penne and the smoky char of Cajun-seasoned chicken thighs, seared to golden perfection. Drizzled with a velvety garlic parmesan cream and sprinkled with fresh herbs, this recipe isn’t just about taste — it’s an experience.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

This meal is a favorite because it perfectly balances creaminess and spice. The Cajun seasoning brings just the right kick, while the garlic parmesan sauce smooths things out with richness and depth. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or looking to spice up your meal rotation, this dish delivers flavor fast.

It’s versatile, too. You can use chicken breasts or thighs, swap penne with any pasta shape you like, or even add spinach or mushrooms for extra flair. Plus, it reheats beautifully, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To create the best Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream, having the right tools can make all the difference:

Cast Iron Skillet or Nonstick Pan: Essential for getting a perfect sear on your Cajun chicken. The even heat distribution ensures crispy, flavorful edges without burning.
Large Pot: You’ll need this to boil your penne pasta and give it room to cook evenly.
Whisk: For blending the garlic parmesan sauce smoothly without clumps.
Tongs: Useful for flipping chicken without tearing the meat.
Meat Thermometer (optional): If you’re new to cooking chicken, this tool ensures your meat reaches a safe internal temperature without overcooking.

Having these kitchen tools at hand ensures every step goes smoothly, from prep to plate.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs: These stay moist and flavorful when seared, giving a tender texture and rich flavor.
Cajun Seasoning: Brings smoky, spicy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Penne Pasta: Its ridges catch the cheesy sauce, giving each bite a satisfying coating.
Heavy Cream: The backbone of the rich garlic parmesan sauce.
Fresh Garlic: Adds robust, aromatic depth to the cream base.
Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce to provide a nutty, salty sharpness.
Butter: Creates a silky texture and helps develop the sauce’s flavor.
Olive Oil: Used to sear the chicken, it enhances the seasoning’s punch.
Fresh Parsley: For garnish and a touch of freshness.

How To Make the Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat your chicken thighs dry and coat them evenly with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear each side for about 4–5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Set aside to rest.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

In a large pot of salted water, cook the penne according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium. Melt butter, then add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Whisk in grated parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens and coats the back of a spoon.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Toss the cooked penne into the garlic parmesan sauce until coated. Slice the Cajun chicken and lay it over the pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley and drizzle any remaining sauce from the pan on top.

Serving and Storing Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken

This hearty dish is best served hot, straight from the skillet, with a sprinkle of extra parmesan or red pepper flakes for a little more heat. Pair it with a crisp salad or garlic bread to round out the meal.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For reheating, a splash of milk or cream helps bring the sauce back to life when warming in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

Cajun seasoning varies by brand, but it usually has a medium spice level. You can reduce the quantity for a milder dish or add extra if you love heat.

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Absolutely. Just be cautious not to overcook, as breasts can dry out faster than thighs.

What pasta substitutes can I use?

Rotini, rigatoni, or fettuccine all work well. Just pick something that holds sauce.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the fridge. Reheat gently and whisk to re-emulsify before serving.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

You can substitute coconut cream and a dairy-free parmesan alternative, but the taste will vary.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free pasta and check that your Cajun seasoning blend doesn’t contain flour or wheat-based fillers.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream, you’ll definitely want to try these recipes next:

Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce for an earthy, creamy alternative.
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese if you’re in the mood for bold sweetness and spice.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps for a quick and satisfying handheld option.
Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti for that oven-baked casserole comfort.
Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet if you’re craving even more Louisiana heat.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it anytime: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest

Let me know how your dish turned out! Did you go extra cheesy? Try a different pasta? I’m always curious how everyone adds their twist. Questions and tips welcome below!