Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

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Bold, creamy, and irresistibly flavorful—this Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is the weeknight dinner that tastes like a weekend indulgence. With perfectly seasoned Cajun chicken seared until golden, paired with penne pasta swimming in a rich garlic mozzarella sauce, each bite is a warm, cheesy hug with a hint of spice.

This dish hits the sweet spot between comfort food and elevated home-cooked magic. Whether you’re cooking for family or looking to impress guests, this pasta brings the heat and the cream in perfect balance. Quick enough for busy nights and special enough for Sunday dinners, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again.

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What Kind of Cajun Seasoning Should I Use?

You can use your favorite store-bought Cajun blend or make your own if you want to control the spice level. A classic mix includes paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, and black pepper. If you’re watching sodium, go for a low-salt version or DIY—it’s surprisingly easy to blend.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Chicken breasts – Boneless and skinless, these are sliced and seasoned for that signature Cajun sear. They bring the protein and a juicy bite to the dish.

Cajun seasoning – Essential for creating that smoky, spicy flavor on the chicken and woven into the sauce.

Olive oil & butter – A combination that gives the chicken a crisp sear and helps build a flavorful base for the sauce.

Penne pasta – This tube-shaped pasta holds the creamy sauce beautifully in every bite.

Garlic – Freshly minced garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic depth.

Heavy cream – Creates the luxurious, rich base for the garlic mozzarella sauce.

Mozzarella cheese – Melts into the sauce for a velvety texture and that cheesy pull we all crave.

Parmesan cheese – Adds nutty sharpness and balances the mozzarella’s creaminess.

Parsley – Chopped and sprinkled for a fresh pop of color and a mild herbal note.

Salt & pepper – For seasoning the pasta water and adjusting flavors to taste.

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How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and rub them generously with Cajun seasoning on both sides. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and let it rest before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta water before draining.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt a bit more butter if needed and sauté minced garlic until fragrant (about 1 minute). Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Gradually whisk in the mozzarella and Parmesan until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained penne pasta into the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, use a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Top the creamy pasta with the sliced Cajun chicken. Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top for freshness and a burst of color. Serve hot and enjoy that perfect balance of spice and cream.

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Serving and Storing the Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

Serve this pasta hot from the skillet for the ultimate comfort food experience. It pairs wonderfully with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or roasted veggies to balance the richness. For a fancier touch, a glass of chilled white wine works like a charm.

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this pasta?

It has a mild to medium kick, depending on your Cajun seasoning. You can always reduce the spice by using less or opting for a milder blend.

Can I substitute the chicken with shrimp?

Absolutely! Cajun shrimp is a delicious alternative. Just cook them quickly in the skillet for 2-3 minutes per side and follow the rest of the recipe as is.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese. Just know the sauce might be slightly less rich but still creamy.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Prepare the sauce and pasta separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve. Add a splash of cream during reheating to keep the sauce smooth.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can make it gluten-free by using your favorite gluten-free pasta and checking your Cajun seasoning for any hidden gluten ingredients.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Freezing is not recommended as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed. For best results, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.

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Want More Pasta Ideas with Bold Flavor?

If this Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta is calling your name, you’ll want to check out these other weeknight winners:

• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta for a cheesy, dreamy twist.
• One Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Chicken Sausage Mac for a spicy one-pan dinner.
• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta if you love the garlic-cheese combo.
• One Pot Creamy Chicken Cheddar Ranch Pasta with comforting ranch flair.
• Sweet Tangy Honey Dijon Chicken Pasta for a balanced bite of sweet and savory.

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Tried it? I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you stick to chicken or switch it up with shrimp? Amp the spice or mellow it down? Drop your twists and tips in the comments—let’s cook better together!

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