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–+ servings

Cajun Creamy Pasta

Discover the rich flavors of Creamy Cajun Garlic Chicken Penne, a comforting blend of tender chicken, smoky spices, and three luscious cheeses. Perfect for family dinners and special occasions.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Optional Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into thick bite-size strips
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 18 oz penne pasta
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 6 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup Velveeta, cubed
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning to tie flavor
  • pinch crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • to taste Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups
  • Chopping board

Method
 

  1. Cook the penne in a large pot of salted boiling water until al dente (about 10-11 minutes). Drain.
  2. Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter; add chicken and sear until fully cooked (7-9 minutes). Transfer to a plate.
  4. In the same skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter, then add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Pour in heavy cream and milk; warm through. Add softened cream cheese and whisk until smooth.
  6. Stir in Velveeta until fully melted, then add mozzarella, Parmesan, additional Cajun seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using).
  7. Add drained penne to the sauce and toss until coated. Adjust with pasta water if needed.
  8. Add cooked chicken on top, mix in if desired, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

Nutrition

Calories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For added flavor, marinate the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and Cajun seasoning for 30 minutes prior to cooking. Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your spice preference, and feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months; reheating may require a splash of cream to maintain creaminess. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve alongside a salad or garlic bread for a balanced meal.
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