If you’re craving a dish that’s rich, creamy, spicy, and bursting with bold flavor, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce will hit every note. Juicy, pan-seared chicken coated in a smoky Cajun rub meets al dente penne pasta drenched in a velvety garlic mozzarella cream sauce. Each bite is indulgent yet perfectly balanced with heat and creaminess.

Perfect for weeknights but impressive enough for dinner guests, this pasta recipe is comfort food with a Southern kick. You’ll love how the Cajun spices add depth to the chicken while the garlicky mozzarella sauce wraps every pasta bite in cheesy goodness. It’s a one-bowl wonder that turns any night into a celebration.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Bold, Zesty Flavor: Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a smoky, spicy crust that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce.
Cheesy Indulgence: The garlic mozzarella sauce is rich, smooth, and irresistibly cheesy.
One-Pan Simplicity: While it looks gourmet, this dish is surprisingly easy to prepare.
Customizable Heat: Make it mild or fiery, depending on your taste.
Meal Prep Friendly: Makes great leftovers for the next day’s lunch or dinner.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this creamy Cajun pasta perfection, you don’t need a commercial kitchen—just a few essential tools:

Cast Iron Skillet or Non-Stick Frying Pan: Essential for searing the chicken and locking in that smoky Cajun crust.
Large Pot: For boiling your penne pasta to al dente texture.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Helps stir the creamy sauce without scratching your pan.
Tongs: Perfect for flipping the chicken evenly and handling the pasta.
Grater: Freshly grated mozzarella melts more smoothly and evenly in the sauce.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: For accurate spice and liquid portions.

Having everything prepped ahead (mise en place) will make cooking smooth and enjoyable.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Acts as the protein star, soaking up all that Cajun flavor.
Penne Pasta: Ideal for holding onto the rich, cheesy sauce in every curve and hollow.
Cajun Seasoning: Brings the smoky, peppery heat that defines the dish.
Garlic Cloves: Adds a punch of flavor and aromatic base to the sauce.
Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into a creamy, stretchy, cheesy dream.
Heavy Cream: The foundation of the silky, rich sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Provides a salty, nutty depth to balance the mozzarella.
Olive Oil: Used for cooking the chicken and enhancing its golden sear.
Butter: Enriches the sauce with velvety texture.
Salt & Black Pepper: Enhances and balances the overall flavors.
Fresh Parsley (optional): For a pop of color and freshness.

How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry, then coat generously with Cajun seasoning on both sides. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and let rest.

Step 2: Cook the Penne

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

Step 3: Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in heavy cream, then stir in mozzarella and parmesan cheeses. Simmer until smooth and creamy, stirring continuously.

Step 4: Slice the Chicken

Slice the rested chicken breasts into strips. This ensures every bite of pasta includes a perfect piece of juicy, spicy chicken.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Toss the cooked penne into the creamy sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. Adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 6: Plate and Serve

Plate the creamy pasta and top with sliced Cajun chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Serving and Storing Your Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

Serving Tips: Serve this dish hot right from the pan, paired with a crisp green salad or crusty garlic bread to scoop up the extra sauce. A squeeze of lemon over the chicken can brighten the flavors beautifully.

Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen up the sauce if needed.

Freezing Tip: You can freeze the sauce and chicken separately for up to 2 months. Avoid freezing pasta, as it tends to get mushy when thawed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this pasta?

That depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. Some blends are milder, while others bring serious heat. You can always start with less and adjust to your preference.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne holds sauce well, but fettuccine, rotini, or rigatoni also work beautifully.

Can I use pre-shredded mozzarella?

You can, but freshly shredded mozzarella melts smoother and provides better flavor.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese, though it may alter the sauce’s richness.

Can I add veggies to this dish?

Definitely. Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or bell peppers are great additions and blend well with the Cajun flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the juices should run clear when sliced.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you love this Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta, you’ll want to try these other comforting pasta dishes next:

Try the rich and hearty Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce
Get cozy with Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese
Turn up the spice with Cajun Ranch Shrimp and Sausage Pasta Skillet
Go bold with One-Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta
For something fun and handheld, try Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you dial up the spice or keep it creamy and mellow? Did you sneak in any extra veggies or try a different pasta?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter and tastier.