Here’s a delicious recipe for Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in a Creamy Sauce — rich, spicy, and perfect for a comforting dinner.
🍗 Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Penne in Creamy Sauce
🕒 Prep Time: 15 mins
🔥 Cook Time: 25 mins
🍽️ Serves: 4
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
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2 large chicken breasts (sliced into thin strips)
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1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
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Salt & pepper to taste
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 tbsp butter
For the Garlic Butter Cream Sauce:
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3 tbsp unsalted butter
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5 garlic cloves, minced
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
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1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Optional: ½ tsp smoked paprika or chili flakes for extra heat
Pasta:
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10 oz (about 3 cups) penne pasta
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Salt for boiling water
Garnish (optional):
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Chopped fresh parsley
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Extra Parmesan
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Lemon wedge (for a fresh zing)
Instructions
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Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. -
Season and Cook the Chicken
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Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
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Heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Sear the chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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Make the Creamy Garlic Butter Sauce
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In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add 3 tbsp butter and melt.
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Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Pour in the chicken broth and scrape up the brown bits for flavor.
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Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
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Add Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and creamy.
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Combine Everything
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Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat in the sauce.
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Add cooked penne and mix well until pasta is fully coated.
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Simmer for 2–3 minutes until everything is heated through.
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Serve
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Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, or a squeeze of lemon for brightness.
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🔥 Tips:
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For extra richness, add a splash of white wine before adding cream.
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Want veggies? Add sautéed bell peppers or spinach.
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Use shrimp or sausage for a twist.