Boil penne in salted water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, drain, and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken
Pat chicken strips dry and season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
Cook chicken until golden and fully cooked, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Cajun Cream Sauce
In the same skillet, melt a little extra butter if needed.
Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
Whisk in cream cheese until smooth.
Stir in Parmesan (and mozzarella if using) until creamy.
Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
Step 4: Combine Pasta & Chicken
Add cooked penne to the sauce and toss until coated.
Return chicken strips to the skillet and fold gently into the pasta.
Use reserved pasta water to thin the sauce if needed.
Step 5: Serve & Garnish
Plate creamy Cajun penne topped with chicken.
Sprinkle with parsley, extra Parmesan, and a dash of Cajun seasoning.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: ~860 kcal
This dish is creamy, indulgent, and perfectly balanced with the smoky Cajun spices—comfort food that feels gourmet.
