Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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If there ever was a pasta dish that checks all the comfort food boxes while packing bold flavor, it’s this Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce. Juicy seared chicken coated in smoky Cajun seasoning pairs up with tender penne and a velvety sauce infused with garlic and mozzarella. The result is a dish that’s both indulgent and just the right amount of spicy.

Every bite is creamy, cheesy, and spiced to perfection. Whether you’re preparing this for a cozy family dinner or spicing up a weekend date night, it delivers a satisfying experience from the very first forkful. And let’s be honest, that sauce is good enough to lick the plate clean.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

This recipe combines comfort and flair in the best way. The richness of the garlic mozzarella sauce tones down the heat from the Cajun spices, creating a perfectly balanced dish that isn’t overpowering but still full of personality. It’s also incredibly easy to make, yet tastes like something you’d find at a fancy restaurant.

Plus, it’s a one-pan kind of meal if you time the pasta and sauce just right. There’s very little cleanup, and it’s a great option for weeknights when you want something hearty without the hassle.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the classic go-to here, as they cook quickly and soak up Cajun seasoning beautifully. However, chicken thighs work just as well if you prefer darker meat with a richer flavor. Just be sure to slice the chicken thinly or pound it to an even thickness to ensure quick, even cooking.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

The magic of this recipe lies in how each ingredient layers flavor into the final dish. The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, spicy kick, while the garlic and mozzarella sauce brings creaminess and depth. It’s important to use quality ingredients here to really make the flavors pop.

• Penne pasta
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts
• Cajun seasoning
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic cloves
• All-purpose flour
• Whole milk
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper
• Fresh parsley

How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

While the pasta is cooking, season the sliced chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk for about a minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and cook until the mixture begins to thicken.

Step 4: Add the Cheese

Lower the heat and stir in shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is silky.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together until well-coated in the sauce. Finish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

How to Serve and Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

This hearty pasta dish is best served immediately while the sauce is still hot and creamy. Garnish with extra parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for more heat. It’s the kind of meal that hits all the right notes when shared right out of the pan, family-style.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk to help loosen the sauce and warm it gently over medium heat on the stovetop or microwave.

This recipe makes enough to feed about 4 people generously, perfect for a family dinner or for meal-prepping lunch the next day.

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta?

Garlic Bread

The garlicky notes in the sauce practically beg to be sopped up with crispy, buttery garlic bread.

Side Salad

A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, creamy pasta.

Roasted Broccoli

Oven-roasted broccoli with olive oil and a pinch of salt balances the meal with earthy tones.

Sautéed Spinach

Lightly wilted spinach with garlic complements the bold flavors without overpowering them.

Grilled Corn

Charred corn brings a sweet and smoky twist that pairs wonderfully with the Cajun spices.

Parmesan Roasted Potatoes

If you’re going all in on comfort food, crispy roasted potatoes are a filling and delicious side.

Pickled Jalapeños

For spice lovers, a spoonful of pickled jalapeños can add extra kick without disrupting the creamy texture.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Kick?

If this Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta lit up your taste buds, you’ll love these other flavorful pasta creations that bring the heat or the comfort:

• Creamy Cajun Linguine if you’re in the mood for something equally rich but with a twist of seafood.
• One Pot Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for a smoky, meaty variation you can whip up in one pan.
• Cheesy Baked Ziti that delivers layers of melty cheese goodness and baked pasta satisfaction.
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Sausage and Broccoli if you’re looking for a veggie-packed dish with bold flavor.
• Easy One Pan Mozzarella Chicken to stay in the creamy garlic lane but switch up the pasta for skillet simplicity.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.

Let me know how yours turned out! Did you make it extra spicy? Swap out the mozzarella for something else? I love seeing how you tweak recipes and make them your own.

Explore even more comforting, creative pasta dishes and cozy weeknight meals on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new favorite go-to dishes!

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Conclusion

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta is a bowl of bold, saucy goodness. It brings together the warm, smoky heat of Cajun seasoning with the rich smoothness of mozzarella garlic sauce, giving you a dish that’s satisfying, simple, and just exciting enough to break your usual dinner routine. Make it once and it might just end up in your weekly rotation.

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