Ready to bring some bold, zesty flavor to your comfort food lineup? This Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce is spicy, creamy, and cheesy in all the best ways. Juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken is nestled on top of penne pasta smothered in a rich garlic mozzarella sauce that clings to every bite.

It’s the perfect fusion of Southern heat and Italian comfort—ideal for cozy nights in or when you need to wow the dinner table. The balance of spice from the Cajun seasoning and the creamy garlic cheese sauce is utterly addictive.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne

If you’re craving a dish that’s both exciting and deeply satisfying, this recipe has you covered.

The Cajun spice adds bold flavor without overwhelming heat
Creamy garlic mozzarella sauce makes the dish irresistibly rich
Perfect 30-minute meal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends
Customizable: add veggies or adjust heat level easily
A great way to use pantry-friendly ingredients in a creative way

Can I Make This Less Spicy?

Absolutely! To tone down the spice, use less Cajun seasoning or choose a mild Cajun blend. You can also balance the heat by adding a bit more cream or mozzarella to mellow it out. If cooking for kids or spice-sensitive eaters, start with half the Cajun seasoning and taste as you go.

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

Here’s what makes this dish pop with flavor and texture:

Penne Pasta: Tubular shape holds the creamy sauce perfectly.
Chicken Breasts (boneless, skinless): Seared in Cajun seasoning for that spicy flavor.
Cajun Seasoning: Bold, smoky spice blend that brings the heat.
Garlic (minced): Sautéed to infuse the sauce with depth.
Butter: Used to sear and start the sauce base.
Olive Oil: Helps brown the chicken.
Heavy Cream: The base for that luscious, rich texture.
Mozzarella Cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully into the sauce.
Salt & Black Pepper: To balance the heat and enhance flavor.
Parsley (optional): Fresh garnish to finish the dish.

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

Step 1: Cook the Penne

Bring salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Slice chicken breasts into strips and coat with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a hot skillet with olive oil and butter, sear until fully cooked and slightly charred. Remove and keep warm.

Step 3: Build the Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet, add more butter if needed and sauté minced garlic. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in shredded mozzarella and mix until fully melted.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked penne into the sauce and toss to coat evenly. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Top the sauced pasta with sliced Cajun chicken. Garnish with chopped parsley and a pinch of extra Cajun seasoning if desired.

Serving and Storing Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta

This spicy, cheesy pasta serves 4 generous portions, perfect for dinner with leftovers to spare. Serve it hot and fresh right after tossing the pasta with the sauce.

If storing leftovers, let them cool completely before placing in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving on high to prevent cheese separation.

What to Serve With Cajun Chicken Pasta

Garlic Toast or Breadsticks

Crunchy and buttery sides to mop up that creamy sauce.

Simple Garden Salad

Fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette balance the bold, creamy flavors.

Roasted Green Beans or Asparagus

Adds crunch and contrast to the rich pasta.

Corn on the Cob

A Southern nod that plays nicely with the Cajun theme.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Cool and juicy to refresh the palate.

Lemonade or Sparkling Water

Bright beverages to contrast the creamy heat.

Crispy Fried Onions or Pickles

Great as a crunchy topping or on the side.

Want More Pasta Dinners With a Kick?

If you love meals that bring the heat and the creaminess, check out these bold pasta recipes:

Creamy Velveeta Chicken Fettuccine with Garlic Cheese Sauce: Rich, velvety, and loaded with cheesy garlic flavor.
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta: A citrusy, creamy delight with bold garlic undertones.
Golden Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Parmesan Linguine: Buttery, savory comfort in every bite.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe: Creamy, dreamy, and laced with sun-dried tomatoes.
Crazy Good Chicken Pasta Casserole: Perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping.

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest board for a future flavor-packed dinner!

Have you made it yet? Share how spicy you went, or if you added veggies or shrimp!

For even more creamy and bold pasta inspirations, follow NoraNosh Recipes on Pinterest and dive into dinnertime bliss.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce

Author: Nora
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Spicy, creamy, and packed with bold flavor, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Penne Pasta with Garlic Mozzarella Sauce brings together Cajun heat and cheesy comfort. Juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken pairs perfectly with penne pasta coated in a smooth garlic mozzarella cream sauce. It’s the perfect quick dinner idea or weeknight pasta fix. If you’re searching for easy dinner recipes, creamy pasta ideas, or spicy chicken meals, this one-pot wonder has it all.