Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream

Name: Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 cups penne pasta (The perfect shape for holding onto that creamy sauce.); 2 pieces chicken thighs, seasoned and cooked (Juicy and tender, full of flavor.); 1 cup heavy cream (Makes the dish rich and decadent.); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (For cheesy goodness.); 2 cloves garlic, minced (Adds essential flavor.); 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (For a delightful kick.); Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper (Essential for flavor adjustment.); Olive oil for sautéing Olive oil (Use good quality extra virgin.); Fresh parsley for garnish Fresh parsley (Adds freshness to the dish.)

Posted on October 20, 2025

Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken in Garlic Parmesan Cream dish

Chicken Recipes

High-calorie fast food meal consisting of burger, fries, soda, and a sad face emoticon.

Easy Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken Recipe

Ah, Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken—this dish has become a staple in my kitchen, especially on those hectic weeknights when you need something quick but delicious. The kind of meal you can throw together even if you’re half watching your favorite show (while still trying to keep an eye on the pasta—oops!). The first time I made this recipe, I was a wide-eyed novice in the kitchen, determined to impress my friends at a dinner gathering. Spoiler alert: it was a hit, and I didn’t burn my eyebrows off.

Picture this: it’s a cozy autumn evening, the air is crisp outside, and I’m in the kitchen, grounded by the warmth of the stove. The aroma of garlic mingling with spices dances through the air, wrapping around me like a soft blanket. I recall the laughter from my friends as they took their first bites, and how their eyes lit up in surprise. That night, it wasn’t just a meal; it was comfort. It felt like home.

What makes this recipe truly special for me is its ability to transform an average Tuesday into a celebration. The creamy garlic Parmesan sauce soaked into tender penne pasta and the robust flavors of Cajun chicken create a melding of comfort food and southern flair. Plus, let’s be real—who wouldn’t want a big bowl of cheesy goodness that tastes amazing and goes easy on the wallet? This dish also ticks all the boxes for easy weeknight dinners, making it a fantastic option for those busy evenings when cooking feels like a chore.

So grab your apron (or don’t, I rarely do!) and let’s dive into this delicious recipe together. Trust me; your taste buds will thank you!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort in a Bowl: This dish truly feels like a warm hug, especially on chilly evenings. You can practically taste the comfort in every bite!
Easy and Quick: It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare, making it one of those easy weeknight dinners you can whip up even after a long day.
Crowd-Pleaser: Picky eaters? No problem. This dish has a way of bringing everyone to the table.
Meal Prep Friendly: Makes for fantastic leftovers! You can even pack it up for lunch the next day. Who doesn’t love a healthy comfort food moment at work?
Budget-Friendly: With basic pantry ingredients, it won’t break the bank. Think cost-effective goodness.
Layered with Flavor: The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick that elevates this dish beyond your regular creamy pasta.

What Makes This Recipe Special?

What truly sets this Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken apart is the harmonious blend of flavors. The Cajun seasoning packs a punch of warmth and complexity without overwhelming the palate. Each bite is a mix of smooth creaminess, savory chicken, and a hint of spice. Honestly, it’s as if each ingredient had a team meeting and decided to work together flawlessly!

The heavy cream is the real star here, working its magic to create a velvety sauce that clings to the pasta in the most delightful way. The grated Parmesan cheese adds an extra layer of richness, bringing everything together in a comforting embrace. And let’s not forget those toddler-like giggles that erupt as I frequently “taste test” while cooking—ya know, it’s called quality control!

Ingredients

2 cups penne pasta: The perfect shape for holding onto that creamy sauce and big enough to satisfy even the heartiest of appetites.
2 chicken thighs, seasoned and cooked: Juicy and tender, they’re full of flavor. I like to use lightly seasoned ones to really allow the Cajun spices to shine.
1 cup heavy cream: This is what makes it rich and decadent! If you’re feeling bold, opt for a splash of half-and-half for a lighter version.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A must-have for that cheesy goodness that gives this dish its flair.
2 cloves garlic, minced: Because honestly, garlic makes everything better! It’s like the secret handshake in the world of cooking.
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: This is where the magic happens! Just enough spice to wake up your taste buds without causing smoke to come out of your ears.
Salt and pepper to taste: Basic but essential; tweaking the seasoning is key to getting the perfect flavor.
Olive oil: A light drizzle for sautéing. I prefer using a good quality extra virgin for flavor.
Fresh parsley for garnish: A sprinkle of green to brighten and add a garden-fresh vibe. Plus, it makes the dish look fab!

Now, when it comes to brand preferences, I usually stick to Barilla for pasta—just my go-to. For Cajun seasoning, make your own or go with a well-reviewed brand—trust me, it’s worth it! And for the love of garlic, don’t skimp on fresh! Feel free to use more or less based on your preference. Remember, cooking should be fun, not a strict adherence to rules.

Don’t Do This Warning: Avoid overcooking the penne; you want it al dente. Nobody likes mushy pasta!

How to Make It Step-by-Step

Alright, friends, let’s get cooking! Here’s how to bring your vision of Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken to life.

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Start by boiling a pot of salted water. Once it’s bubbling like a cauldron, toss in your penne pasta. You’ll want to cook it according to package instructions until it’s just al dente—remember, we don’t want mushy pasta! When it’s done, drain it and set it aside. Pro tip: you can save a mug of pasta water for later if your sauce needs a little thinning.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Grab a large skillet and heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. As it warms up, season those chicken thighs. A bit of salt, pepper, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of extra Cajun spice wouldn’t hurt! Once the oil is shimmering, place the chicken thighs in the skillet. The sizzle is music to my ears! Cook until they’re golden brown and cooked through—about 7-10 minutes per side should do it.

Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board. This way, it’ll retain those buttery juices. Oh, and pro tip: try not to poke and prod it while cooking—patience is key here!

Step 3: Infuse the Garlic

In the same skillet (because why dirty another pan, right?), add the minced garlic. You’ll want to sauté it for about 60 seconds, just until pleasant garlic-y goodness fills your kitchen. Keep an eye on it, though; burnt garlic is no one’s friend. It’s not exactly an easy weeknight dinner with a side of bitterness!

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Next, pour in that luscious heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. It’ll bubble a little—this is good! Now, toss in the grated Parmesan cheese and Cajun seasoning, stirring until all the cheesy, creamy goodness melds into a smooth sauce. Oh, the angels are singing! Make sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. I’m always surprised—just a pinch extra of salt can elevate this dish!

Step 5: Bring It All Together

While the sauce works its magic, slice the rested chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return this beautiful chicken back to the skillet, along with the reserved penne. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated in that heavenly sauce—it’s like a creamy hug for your mouth!

Honestly, if you happen to go a little overboard with the tossing—no judgment! It’s all about love here, right?

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Finally, it’s time to plate! Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for that pop of color. Oh, the presentation will have everyone thinking you slaved away in the kitchen for hours!

Tips for Best Results

Don’t Skimp on the Cheese: Use the freshest cheese you can find. Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as well, and we’re after that creamy goodness.
Taste as You Go: Flavors develop while cooking. Don’t be shy; keep tasting and tweaking!
Add Some Veggies: Throw in some spinach or bell peppers for added color and nutrition without compromising the dish.
Make It Spicy: If you love a kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes!

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations

Pasta Alternatives: If you want a low-carb twist, try zucchini noodles or even cauliflower pasta for a healthy comfort food option.
Dairy-Free Version: Swap the heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesier flavor.
Protein Options: Feel free to swap the chicken thighs for shrimp or even chickpeas for a completely different flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal. I love adding a light vinaigrette that cuts through the creaminess. If you’re in the mood for something refreshing, perhaps a glass of iced tea or even a crisp white wine would add a delightful touch. And let’s not forget: this dish paired with a quirky rom-com is pure magic!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Let’s be real—leftovers are the gift that keep on giving! Once your Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to reheat, a quick microwave session works wonders. But, if you want to indulge in that creamy goodness again, I recommend reheating it on the stovetop with a splash of milk or pasta water to revive its glory!

Make-Ahead and Freezer Tips

If you plan ahead, you can make this dish on a Sunday and enjoy it throughout the week. It can also be frozen for up to a month—just ensure it’s in a freezer-friendly container. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating, and just like that, you’ve got an easy dinner ready to go!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Pasta: It’s a crime we’ve all committed, myself included! Overcooked pasta will ruin the dish.
Not Tasting?! Seriously, taste every step of the way! It’s the best way to ensure you’ll end up with something amazing.
Forgetting to Rest the Chicken: Letting it sit after cooking helps retain its juices. Don’t shortcut this step!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use any type of chicken?
Absolutely! Chicken breast works fine, but just remember it won’t be quite as juicy.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, oregano, and thyme or skip it and use Italian seasoning for a milder flavor.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes! It’s perfectly fine to prepare it earlier in the day or even freeze it for later.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level is very adjustable. Feel free to tweak it based on your preference!

Cooking Tools You’ll Need

To make your life easier while cooking this dish, here are some handy tools:

Large pot for boiling pasta
Skillet for cooking chicken and sauce
Cutting board for slicing chicken
Sharp knife for ease of preparation
Measuring cups and spoons for accurate ratios

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Penne and Cajun Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that creates warmth in the heart and home. This recipe is dear to me because it reflects a time of celebration and comfort, and isn’t that what food should be about? It’s versatile, it’s forgiving, and it’s downright enjoyable to make.

I invite you to give it a whirl and personalize it along the way. Who knows? This could become your new family favorite! If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to save it on Pinterest or share it with a friend! Happy cooking!