There’s something undeniably comforting about a plate of creamy pasta paired with perfectly seasoned chicken. This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Parmesan Sauce is the kind of dish that makes you forget you’re eating at home. With juicy seared chicken seasoned with bold Cajun spices, and pasta cloaked in a luxuriously creamy garlic-Parmesan sauce, it’s both satisfying and surprisingly easy to whip up.

Each bite balances spice, richness, and freshness — perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend indulgence, or impressing guests. Whether you’re cooking for your family or planning a cozy date night in, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

One-Pan Wonder: Chicken and sauce cook together in the same skillet, making clean-up a breeze.
Flavor-Packed: The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, spicy punch that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Versatile & Adaptable: Great with shrimp, sausage, or even a vegetarian twist.
Restaurant-Worthy: Tastes like something you’d order at a high-end bistro, but made easily at home.
Crowd-Pleaser: This is a recipe that never has leftovers—it’s just that good.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

We love using penne for this recipe because its ridges and tube shape hold the creamy Parmesan sauce exceptionally well. However, you can easily swap in fettuccine, rigatoni, or even farfalle if that’s what you have on hand. The key is to choose a pasta shape that has enough surface area to soak up every drop of that velvety garlic butter sauce.

Ingredients for the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

This flavorful dish calls for simple yet powerful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in delivering the bold and creamy character this meal is known for.

Chicken Breast: Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized chunks. It forms the juicy, protein-rich base of the dish.
Cajun Seasoning: Provides a spicy, smoky kick that gives the chicken its signature bold flavor.
Garlic (Fresh Minced): Deepens the savory profile and builds the foundation for the creamy sauce.
Butter: Used for searing the chicken and enhancing the sauce’s richness.
Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce luscious and smooth, clinging to every bit of pasta.
Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated): Melts beautifully into the sauce, adding a salty and nutty edge.
Penne Pasta: Holds the sauce perfectly with its tubular shape.
Fresh Parsley: Adds a bright, herbal contrast to the richness of the dish.
Olive Oil: Helps brown the chicken without burning the butter.
Salt & Pepper: Basic seasonings that balance all the bold flavors.

How To Make the Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken, season generously with Cajun seasoning, and sear until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Create the Garlic Base

In the same skillet, add more butter if needed and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let it burn.

Step 3: Build the Cream Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese gradually, whisking until the sauce is thickened and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken

Add the cooked penne to the sauce, stirring to coat each piece. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, allowing the flavors to meld together over low heat for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley on top before serving. Optionally, add an extra pinch of Cajun seasoning or a few chili flakes for extra heat.

How to Serve and Store This Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne

This hearty recipe yields enough to feed 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size. It shines on its own but can also be plated with a small salad or crusty bread for a complete dinner. Serve hot, straight from the skillet for the best creamy texture.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving for too long, as the sauce may separate.

What to Serve With Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne?

🥖 Garlic Bread

A classic companion that helps scoop up any leftover sauce.

🥗 Caesar Salad

Its crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and croutons offer refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.

🥦 Roasted Broccoli

Adds a nutritious, slightly bitter bite that balances the creaminess of the dish.

�\df77 White Wine (Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)

A chilled glass of wine helps cut through the richness and enhances the Cajun flavors.

🍅 Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil with a balsamic drizzle offer a tangy, fresh side.

🌽 Grilled Corn on the Cob

A smoky-sweet addition that pairs well with the Cajun profile.

🥬 Sautéed Spinach

A quick and easy green that complements the creamy pasta.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If this Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne has your taste buds dancing, you’ll want to check out these other comforting pasta creations:

Try the creamy perfection of Marry Me Chicken Pasta for a rich and romantic dinner.
Savor a bold twist with Buffalo Chicken Lasagna.
Keep it one-pan easy with Creamy Beef and Shells.
Dive into cheesy layers with Broccoli Cheddar Chicken Lasagna.
Or enjoy the herby comfort of Baked Chicken Ricotta Meatballs with Spinach Alfredo Sauce.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go extra Cajun? Add sun-dried tomatoes or spinach? I love seeing how others make these recipes their own.

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