When comfort food meets bold spice and indulgent creaminess, something magical happens in the kitchen. Chicken Penne in Cajun Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce is exactly that kind of magic. This dish is for anyone who loves a meal that’s both cozy and packed with flavor. From the juicy Cajun-spiced chicken to the penne pasta smothered in a rich garlic butter cheese sauce, every bite of this dish delivers warmth, satisfaction, and a touch of excitement.
The combination of Cajun spices, creamy mozzarella, and golden seared chicken creates a restaurant-worthy dinner you can make easily at home. Whether you’re cooking for a hungry family, serving guests, or preparing a decadent weeknight treat, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.
Let’s explore what makes this dish a must-try and how to execute it perfectly every time.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
This pasta dish brings together several crowd-pleasers into one hearty bowl. You’ve got:
- Cajun-spiced chicken that’s juicy, flavorful, and seared to perfection
- A velvety sauce made from garlic, butter, heavy cream, mozzarella, and Parmesan
- Penne pasta, which holds the sauce beautifully in every bite
- A customizable heat level, thanks to crushed red pepper
- A satisfying serving size that keeps you full and happy
Not only is this meal rich in flavor and comfort, it’s also simple to make with ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
Ingredients Breakdown
Here’s what you’ll need and why each element is essential to the final result.
Chicken (1½ lbs boneless, skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces)
The base protein of this dish. When seasoned and seared well, it brings a flavorful, golden-brown richness that elevates the entire meal.
Penne Pasta (12 oz)
The shape and texture of penne are ideal for holding creamy sauces. Its tubes catch every bit of flavor, making each forkful rich and satisfying.
Olive Oil (2 tbsp) and Unsalted Butter (3 tbsp, divided)
The olive oil is used to sear the chicken, while butter adds deep richness to both the chicken and the sauce. Using unsalted butter allows you to control the salt level in the final dish.
Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
Garlic is the heart of the flavor profile. Used in both the chicken and the sauce, it creates a base of aroma and warmth that ties everything together.
Cajun Seasoning (1 tsp or more to taste)
Adds a smoky, spicy kick that defines the dish. The Cajun flavor is what makes this pasta stand out from other creamy chicken pastas.
Salt and Black Pepper
Essential for balancing flavors. Use to taste at each stage.
Heavy Cream (1½ cups)
The creamy base of the sauce, heavy cream creates the rich, velvety texture that clings to the pasta.
Mozzarella Cheese (1½ cups shredded)
Melts smoothly into the sauce, providing that gooey, stretchy, comforting element.
Parmesan Cheese (¾ cup freshly grated)
Adds nuttiness, saltiness, and complexity to the cream sauce.
Italian Seasoning (½ tsp)
A mix of dried herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds a subtle herbaceous layer that balances the richness of the cheese and cream.
Crushed Red Pepper Flakes
Optional, but excellent for adding just a bit of fire. Use as little or as much as you like.
Chopped Fresh Parsley
Adds a final touch of freshness and color, enhancing both flavor and presentation.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these directions to ensure a flawless final dish.
- Boil the Penne Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente, usually about 10 minutes. Before draining, reserve ½ cup of the pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning. Drain and set the pasta aside. - Season and Cook the Chicken
Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken and let it sear undisturbed for 3 to 4 minutes before stirring. Cook for a total of 7–8 minutes, or until golden and fully cooked through. During the last minute, stir in half the minced garlic to infuse the chicken with flavor. Remove the chicken from the skillet and keep warm. - Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the remaining garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to brown it. - Create the Creamy Base
Slowly pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. Do not let it boil. - Melt the Cheeses
Add the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan to the cream sauce. Stir constantly until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce thickens into a smooth, luxurious consistency. - Add Herbs and Seasoning
Stir in the Italian seasoning and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. - Combine with Pasta
Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss to coat thoroughly. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water until the desired consistency is reached. - Plate and Garnish
Serve the creamy penne on one side of the plate and spoon the seared Cajun chicken on the other. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan or red pepper flakes if desired.
Tips for Success
- Cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t become mushy when tossed with the sauce.
- Freshly grate your Parmesan—pre-grated cheese can clump and not melt smoothly.
- For even more Cajun flavor, sprinkle extra seasoning on the chicken after it cooks.
- To avoid burning the garlic, add it after the chicken has started browning, not at the beginning.
Flavor Variations
This recipe is versatile and easy to customize based on your preferences.
Add Vegetables:
Spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers can be added to the sauce for extra nutrition and color.
Use Different Proteins:
Swap chicken for shrimp or sliced andouille sausage for a more traditional Cajun flair.
Make It Extra Spicy:
Increase the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes. You can also add a pinch of cayenne for serious heat lovers.
Make It Vegetarian:
Skip the chicken and add pan-seared tofu or extra veggies. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if adapting the recipe further.
Pairing Suggestions
This hearty, cheesy dish pairs beautifully with lighter sides to balance the richness.
Fresh Green Salad:
A simple arugula or romaine salad with lemon vinaigrette is a perfect contrast.
Garlic Bread or Breadsticks:
Ideal for scooping up any leftover sauce from the plate.
Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus:
Adds crunch and freshness without overwhelming the dish.
Wine Pairing:
Try a lightly oaked Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or a chilled Rosé. These wines cut through the creaminess while complementing the spice.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This pasta dish stores and reheats well, making it great for leftovers or meal prep.
To Store:
Cool the dish completely and transfer to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
To Freeze:
Not ideal due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate upon thawing. However, you can freeze the cooked chicken separately if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this without heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk with a tablespoon of flour to help thicken the sauce. The flavor won’t be quite as rich, but it will still be creamy and delicious.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Absolutely. Rotini, rigatoni, or even fettuccine will work well. Choose something that holds sauce nicely.
How can I make it lighter?
Use light cream, reduce the cheese slightly, and add vegetables like spinach to bulk it up without adding calories.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes. Use gluten-free pasta and check that your Cajun seasoning is certified gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Penne in Cajun Mozzarella Garlic Butter Sauce is a dish that blends the bold and the comforting in perfect harmony. It’s indulgent without being over the top, spicy without overwhelming the palate, and simple enough to prepare on a weeknight. From the tender chicken to the rich sauce clinging to every piece of pasta, this recipe delivers warmth, flavor, and satisfaction in every bite.
Perfect for pasta nights, special occasions, or simply when you’re craving something creamy and bold, this dish never fails to impress. And best of all? You made it yourself, from scratch, in your own kitchen.
So the next time you’re wondering what to cook that will wow without the stress, remember this dish. It’s creamy. It’s cheesy. It’s got a little kick. And it just might become your new favorite comfort food.