Garlic Parmesan Chicken Penne in Creamy Cajun Three-Cheese Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tbsp unsalted butter (for cooking chicken)
1½ tsp Cajun seasoning
½ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for crusting)
For the Pasta and Sauce:
12 oz penne pasta
2 tbsp unsalted butter (for sauce)
4 garlic cloves, minced
1½ cups heavy cream
¾ cup low-sodium chicken broth
2 oz cream cheese, softened
1 cup shredded mozzarella
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar
¾ cup grated Parmesan (for sauce)
½ tsp Italian seasoning
½ tsp dried basil
¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh chopped parsley or herbs, for garnish
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Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season and Crust the Chicken:
Season the chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Press grated Parmesan onto each piece to form a flavorful crust.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter.
Add the chicken strips and sear for 5–7 minutes, or until golden and cooked through.
In the last minute of cooking, add 1 tablespoon of butter and half of the minced garlic. Stir to coat the chicken in garlic butter.
Remove chicken from the skillet and keep warm.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the rest of the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Add the Cheeses:
Whisk in the softened cream cheese until smooth.
Gradually stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan. Let the sauce melt and thicken into a rich, creamy texture.
6. Season the Sauce:
Add Italian seasoning, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes.
7. Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss well to coat. Let it sit over low heat for another minute to absorb the flavor.
8. Serve:
Plate the creamy penne and top with the garlic Parmesan chicken strips, or stir the chicken directly into the pasta.
Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or herbs for a vibrant finish.
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Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~840 per serving
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