Description
Indulge in our Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Chicken Penne Recipe, a delightful fusion of rich flavors and creamy textures that brings excitement to your dinner table. This comforting dish features tender chicken strips coated with a crispy Parmesan crust, combined with al dente penne pasta enveloped in a luxurious three-cheese sauce infused with zesty Cajun spices. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe is quick to prepare and easy to customize, making it a go-to choice for busy weeknights. Whether served as a main course or alongside a fresh salad, this pasta dish is sure to impress everyone.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for sauce
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- Fresh chopped parsley or herbs, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; coat with grated Parmesan.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, melt butter and olive oil; sear chicken strips until golden brown.
- Add garlic during the last minute of cooking; set chicken aside.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining butter, add garlic, then pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
- Whisk in cream cheese until smooth; gradually stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan until thickened.
- Season sauce with Italian seasoning and basil; combine cooked penne with sauce and toss well.
- Serve topped with sliced chicken or mixed together; garnish with fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Searing, Simmering
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 785mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 115mg