If you are craving a comforting meal that perfectly balances spicy and creamy flavors, then the Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish combines tender, well-seasoned Cajun chicken thighs with al dente penne pasta swimming in a luscious garlic Parmesan cream sauce that is rich, flavorful, and utterly satisfying. Every forkful is a cozy celebration of bold spices melding with cheesy indulgence, making it an irresistible dinner that you and your loved ones will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind the Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the aromatic garlic to the creamy Parmesan sauce, not to mention the spicy kick that Cajun seasoning brings to the chicken. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:
- Chicken thighs, boneless and skinless: Perfect for staying juicy and tender under the Cajun spice rub.
- Cajun seasoning: Adds that unforgettable smoky and spicy punch that defines this dish.
- Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection without overpowering flavors.
- Butter (divided): Provides richness to both the chicken and the creamy sauce.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the sauce with vibrant aroma and depth.
- Heavy cream: The base for our silky garlic Parmesan sauce that clings to every pasta piece.
- Parmesan cheese, grated: Melts into the sauce to create luxurious cheesiness and a hint of nuttiness.
- Penne pasta: Holds the creamy sauce in its hollow tubes, making every bite more enjoyable.
- Fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness at the end.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Sear the Cajun Chicken
Begin by patting the chicken thighs dry to ensure a beautiful sear. Rub them generously with Cajun seasoning, letting those smoky spices coat every inch. Heat olive oil and half the butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken thighs for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. This creates a delicious crust and locks in juices. Once done, set the chicken aside to rest while you prepare the pasta and sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Cook the penne pasta until just al dente, following the package directions—this ensures the pasta has the ideal bite to soak up the creamy sauce. Before draining, remember to reserve one cup of the pasta cooking water; it’s a secret ingredient to help loosen the sauce later if needed. Drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Build the Cream Sauce
In the same skillet you cooked the chicken, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it gently until fragrant and golden, about 1 to 2 minutes—this step fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas that hint at what’s coming. Next, pour in the heavy cream, using a wooden spoon to scrape all those tasty browned bits from the pan’s bottom; that’s where much of the flavor hides.
Step 4: Incorporate Parmesan and Season the Sauce
Gradually whisk the grated Parmesan cheese into the cream, stirring until the sauce transforms into a velvety, smooth mixture. Season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, making sure to balance the richness with a touch of seasoning. This luscious sauce is what makes the Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream Recipe so decadently comforting.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce. If it feels too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to achieve the perfect consistency that lightly coats every piece of pasta with cheesy goodness. Stir gently so everything is harmoniously combined.
Step 6: Slice Chicken and Garnish
Slice the rested Cajun chicken thighs into strips and arrange them on top of the creamy penne. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for a splash of color and a hint of fresh herbal flavor. Serve it piping hot and watch your guests dig in with delight.
How to Serve Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream Recipe
Garnishes
While the chopped parsley is a classic and beautiful garnish, you can also sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika to enhance both the look and the smoky flavor. For an extra cheesy touch, a light dusting of additional Parmesan just before serving adds a wonderful finishing touch.
Side Dishes
This rich dish pairs wonderfully with crisp, bright sides to balance the creaminess. Think of a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or broccoli that bring freshness and texture to the plate. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette can also be perfect to soak up every last bit of the garlic Parmesan sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a more elegant presentation, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls with the sliced Cajun chicken thoughtfully fan-arranged on top. Garnish each plate with a sprig of parsley and a lemon wedge to offer a bright, citrusy contrast. For casual gatherings, a large family-style serving dish piled high and scattered with parsley creates a warm, inviting centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
You can store any leftover Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, making the dish even more comforting the next day.
Freezing
While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month, though the texture of the cream sauce might slightly change. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Adding a splash of milk or cream during reheating can help restore the sauce’s creamy consistency and prevent drying out. Avoid high heat to keep the chicken tender.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breast can be used, though it’s leaner and may become less tender if overcooked, so watch the cooking time carefully to keep it juicy.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this recipe?
The Cajun seasoning adds a moderate level of spiciness with smoky and herbaceous notes. If you prefer less heat, you can reduce the amount or choose a milder Cajun mix.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free penne pasta to maintain the classic texture while keeping the dish gluten-free without sacrificing any flavor.
Can I substitute Parmesan cheese with another cheese?
While Parmesan is ideal for its nutty, sharp flavor and melting quality, you can use Pecorino Romano for a stronger salty note, or a mild Asiago if preferred.
What can I do if my sauce is too thick?
Simply stir in a bit more reserved pasta water, milk, or cream until you reach your desired sauce consistency. This keeps the pasta beautifully coated without becoming dry.
Final Thoughts
There is something wonderfully comforting and exciting about the Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream Recipe that makes it a perfect weeknight favorite or a special weekend treat. The combination of spicy chicken and rich, creamy sauce intertwined with pasta is pure joy on a plate. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly become a go-to dish to impress both family and friends. So grab your ingredients and get cooking—you’re in for a delicious adventure!
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Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
A comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender Cajun-spiced chicken thighs served over al dente penne pasta, all enveloped in a rich and creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. This recipe combines a perfect balance of spices, creamy textures, and cheesy goodness for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Pasta
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt (for pasta water)
Instructions
- Season and Sear Chicken: Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. Rub both sides evenly with the Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter is melted and the pan is hot, place the chicken thighs in the skillet and sear them for 6 to 7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Cook Penne Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 9–11 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving 1 cup of the cooking water for later use in the sauce.
- Prepare Garlic Parmesan Sauce: In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes, or until fragrant and lightly golden, taking care not to burn it. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet to add flavor.
- Add Parmesan Cheese: Gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese into the cream mixture until the sauce becomes smooth, thick, and creamy. Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Toss Pasta with Sauce: Add the drained penne pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat the pasta evenly. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired consistency for a creamy coating.
- Slice and Serve: Slice the cooked Cajun chicken thighs into strips. Arrange the sliced chicken on top of the sauced pasta. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve the dish hot.
Notes
- For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best flavor and smooth sauce texture.
- Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency and help it cling better to the pasta.
- Can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
- To make gluten-free, swap penne pasta for a gluten-free variety.
