A rich and creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce is the ultimate comfort dish for any occasion. This pasta dish stands out with its cheesy goodness combined with a spicy Cajun twist, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, three cheeses, and Cajun seasoning creates a rich, savory sauce that elevates the humble penne pasta.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight meals, this recipe can also be served at special occasions or potlucks.
• Kid-Friendly: The creamy texture and cheesy flavors make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making them great for lunch the next day.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and creating the creamy sauce without needing to transfer between multiple pans.
• Pot for boiling pasta: A spacious pot allows you to cook the penne evenly for the perfect al dente texture.

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Ingredients

To make this flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chicken and Pasta

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 12 oz penne pasta

For the Creamy Sauce

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth

For the Cheese Mixture

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Seasoning and Garnish

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

How to Make Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Cheeses

1. Add mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses into the skillet.
2. Stir continuously until all cheeses are melted and sauce is smooth.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return cooked chicken to the skillet.
2. Toss to coat with the creamy sauce.
3. Add cooked penne pasta; toss until fully coated in sauce.

Step 6: Serve

1. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce!

How to Serve Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce

Serving Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce can elevate your dinner experience. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance the meal.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Garden Salad: A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed lightly with vinaigrette.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with crunchy croutons and creamy dressing for a classic touch.

Add Crunchy Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic butter for that perfect crunch.
• Cheesy Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks sprinkled with mozzarella and herbs, great for dipping.

Top with Extra Garnish

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle parsley or basil on top for added freshness and color.
• Grated Cheese: Offer extra grated Parmesan cheese at the table for those who love a cheesy boost.

How to Perfect Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce

To achieve the best results with your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Enhance the flavor by ensuring the chicken is well-seasoned with Cajun seasoning before cooking.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure your penne pasta is cooked al dente; it will hold its shape better when mixed with the sauce.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs make a noticeable difference in flavor compared to dried versions.
• Control Heat: Maintain medium heat when adding cream; too high can cause it to curdle.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to try different cheese combinations for unique flavors; gouda or pepper jack work well too.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce

Complementing your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne can create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent side dish options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed for a healthy crunch that pairs nicely with rich pasta.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender, adding a savory touch.
3. Coleslaw: A refreshing mix of cabbage and carrots tossed in a tangy dressing for contrast.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness that complements spicy flavors wonderfully.
5. Quinoa Salad: A nutritious salad with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
6. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide comfort alongside the pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make your Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce perfect, avoid these common mistakes.

• Ignoring the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken well can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you thoroughly coat the chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy. Always cook penne until it’s al dente according to package instructions for the best texture.
• Not using fresh ingredients: Using old or stale garlic can diminish the dish’s flavor. Opt for fresh garlic cloves to enhance the taste of your creamy sauce.
• Rushing the sauce preparation: Allowing the sauce to simmer gently is crucial for proper flavor development. Don’t rush this step; let it come together slowly.
• Skipping garnishes: Forgetting to garnish with parsley can make your dish look less appealing. Always add a touch of freshness on top before serving.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, and it can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe container and heat in intervals of 1 minute until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Warm over low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for added flavor.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative if you prefer a lighter option.

How spicy is this Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne?

The spiciness comes from Cajun seasoning, which you can adjust based on your preference by using more or less of it.

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with any pasta shape you prefer, such as fettuccine or rigatoni.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce is a deliciously rich meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it comforting and satisfying. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for extra nutrition. Give it a try and enjoy this versatile dish!

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Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce, a delightful comfort dish perfect for any occasion. This easy-to-make pasta recipe boasts a rich blend of three cheeses, garlic, and a kick of Cajun seasoning, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s kid-friendly and makes for excellent leftovers! Elevate your meal with fresh herbs and crunchy sides for a complete dining experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 4 cloves garlic
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
2. Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken until golden (6–8 minutes). Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1–2 minutes. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses; stir until melted and smooth.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and toss with sauce. Add cooked penne and mix until fully coated.
6. Serve garnished with fresh parsley.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet cooking
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 680
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 560mg
• Fat: 40g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 36g
• Cholesterol: 150mg

Keywords: For extra nutrition, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.