Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella

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Craving something spicy, creamy, and completely satisfying? This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella combines smoky Cajun flavors with a rich, velvety cheese sauce that coats every bite of tender pasta. It’s bold, comforting, and just the right amount of indulgent.

Whether you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinner routine or impress guests with a restaurant-style dish, this pasta brings the heat without overwhelming your palate. The combination of juicy chicken, sharp Parmesan, gooey mozzarella, and aromatic garlic is pure comfort food magic, all tossed with perfectly cooked penne.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools for a smooth process. A heavy-bottomed skillet or cast iron pan is crucial to getting a good sear on the Cajun chicken without drying it out. You’ll also need a large pot to cook the pasta evenly and a fine grater for freshly grated Parmesan, which melts better and adds a more intense flavor.

A silicone spatula helps you stir without scratching non-stick surfaces, and a whisk will keep your cheese sauce lump-free. Don’t forget measuring spoons and cups for accurate spice levels—too much Cajun can overpower, and too little won’t hit that craveable note. These tools make all the difference in nailing both texture and flavor.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella

• Chicken breasts: The star protein, juicy and tender when seared with Cajun seasoning for bold, smoky flavor.
• Penne pasta: Its tubular shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite rich and satisfying.
• Heavy cream: Provides the luxurious base of the sauce, delivering smoothness and body.
• Garlic: Finely minced, it infuses the entire dish with aromatic depth and a savory backbone.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds salty sharpness that balances the richness and lifts the sauce.
• Mozzarella cheese: Melts into gooey, stretchy pockets throughout the pasta, creating a luscious texture.
• Cajun seasoning: A smoky, spicy blend that brings the signature heat and depth.
• Olive oil: Helps in searing the chicken and unlocking the flavors of the spices.
• Butter: Adds richness to the sauce and enhances the mouthfeel.
• Salt and pepper: Balances all flavors and enhances the natural taste of every ingredient.
• Fresh parsley: Optional, for garnish and a touch of freshness.

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How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta with Parmesan, Garlic, and Mozzarella

Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken

Rub the chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a hot skillet with olive oil, sear each side for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Let them rest, then slice into strips.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne until al dente according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and stir with a whisk until smooth and beginning to bubble.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

Add grated Parmesan and mozzarella to the cream mixture. Stir continuously until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce thickens to coat the back of a spoon.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat. Add the sliced Cajun chicken on top or mix it in, depending on your presentation preference.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh parsley if desired and a touch more Cajun seasoning for added color. Serve hot and enjoy immediately.

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How to Serve and Store Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This pasta dish is best served piping hot, straight from the skillet. Plate it with the chicken slices layered beautifully over the creamy pasta, and finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color and brightness. It pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a crisp Caesar salad to balance the richness.

If you have leftovers (and that’s a big if), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid the microwave when possible to maintain the best texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they cook evenly and slice nicely. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier, richer flavor.

Can I make it less spicy?

Yes! Reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a mild version. You can also stir in a bit of cream cheese or plain Greek yogurt to mellow the heat.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not by default, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and checking your Cajun seasoning mix for any gluten-containing additives.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Absolutely. Just make sure it’s well-seasoned. Heat it in the pan briefly before starting the sauce to infuse more flavor.

What other cheeses can I use?

Fontina, Gruyère, or even a mild cheddar could substitute for mozzarella if you’d like a different melt or flavor.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended as the creamy sauce may separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for a couple of days.

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Want More Cajun Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’re in for a treat with some other comforting, spicy pasta dishes.

You might also enjoy the One Skillet Smoky Cajun BBQ Chicken Pasta for a smoky twist that brings a touch of barbecue heat. Or dive into the Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli if you want extra greens with your creamy pasta.

For something even bolder, try the Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta—it’s a fiery favorite with a kick. And if beef is more your speed, the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta gives a hearty, meat-forward alternative.

Or lighten things up a bit with a side like the Italian Grinder Salad to cut through all the richness.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your comfort food or weeknight dinner boards for next time. Just click the Pin button.

If you make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you swap cheeses? Try it with shrimp? Leave a comment below—I’m always curious how you made it your own.

For even more creamy or Cajun-inspired recipes, follow me on Pinterest – LadyPlate.

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