Description
Indulge in a creamy and flavorful Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce that’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. This dish features tender chicken pieces seared to golden perfection, tossed with al dente penne pasta and enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce. The unique blend of Cajun spices adds a delightful kick, making this recipe a surefire hit. In just 35 minutes, you can prepare this one-pan wonder that will please even the pickiest eaters while minimizing cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup Velveeta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions
- Cook penne according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear seasoned chicken until golden brown; remove from skillet.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic in butter, then add heavy cream and chicken broth to simmer.
- Stir in cream cheese and remaining cheeses until melted and creamy.
- Toss cooked penne in the sauce; add reserved pasta water if needed to adjust consistency.
- Serve by plating the penne with seared chicken on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing and Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 350g)
- Calories: 670
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 41g
- Cholesterol: 150mg