Description
Enjoy bold flavors with these Cajun Chicken Bites with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce. This quick and easy recipe combines tender chicken bites infused with zesty Cajun spices and enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce over perfectly cooked penne pasta. Ideal for family dinners or cozy nights in, it’s a comforting meal that promises satisfaction for all ages.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- tsp garlic powder
- tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- tsp Cajun seasoning (optional, for extra flavor)
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
- Toss chicken pieces with olive oil and Cajun seasoning. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown (6-8 minutes).
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute.
- Whisk in flour to create a roux; gradually add milk and heavy cream while stirring until smooth.
- Stir in cream cheese and shredded cheeses until melted and creamy; season as desired.
- Combine cooked chicken and penne with the sauce, stirring gently to coat, then serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 830mg
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg