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–+ servings

Cajun Cheesy Penne

Discover the perfect blend of creamy Alfredo and spicy Cajun in this Cheesy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick strips
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp butter, divided
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 4 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • to taste Chopped parsley, for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet for cooking the chicken and making the sauce
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk or wooden spoon
  • Colander for draining pasta

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  2. Pat chicken dry, season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. Heat olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  4. Lower heat, add remaining butter to the skillet. Sauté garlic for about 30 seconds.
  5. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to lift browned bits.
  6. Add Velveeta, mozzarella, Parmesan, and cream cheese. Stir until cheeses melt into a smooth sauce.
  7. Add Italian seasoning and adjust seasoning as desired.
  8. Toss cooked penne into the skillet to coat in the sauce.
  9. Return chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 35gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For an extra flavor burst, marinate the chicken in the Cajun seasoning for 30 minutes. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
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