Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Twisted Pasta in Spicy Three-Cheese Cajun Sauce is a delightful meal that brings together the rich flavors of garlic, creamy cheese, and tender chicken. This dish features twisted pasta enveloped in a spicy three-cheese sauce, creating a comforting yet exciting dining experience. Whether youโre preparing a casual weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees satisfaction with every bite. Its customizable spice level allows you to tailor it to your preference, making it perfect for everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for coating)
- 12 oz twisted pasta (e.g., gemelli or fusilli)
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or dried herbs, for garnish
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Cook the twisted pasta in salted boiling water 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, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Sear the seasoned chicken for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown; add garlic during the last minute.
- Remove chicken from skillet and keep warm. In the same skillet, melt remaining butter, sautรฉ garlic briefly, then add heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
- Stir in cream cheese until smooth, then gradually mix in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan until thickened.
- Adjust seasonings as needed; toss cooked pasta with sauce and let simmer on low for about 12 minutes.
- Serve topped with garlic Parmesan chicken strips and garnish as desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 680
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 45g
- Saturated Fat: 24g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
Keywords: For added nutrition, consider incorporating vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers into the dish. Adjust the spice level by modifying the amount of Cajun seasoning or adding more crushed red pepper flakes.