Garlic Butter Cajun Chicken with Cheddar Parmesan Penne
Ingredients:
2 large chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp garlic butter, divided
2 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp paprika
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
1 lb penne
6 tbsp butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
4 tbsp flour
4 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar
1 cup grated Parmesan
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
Directions:
1. Toss chicken with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high and melt 2 tbsp garlic butter. Add chicken and cook 6–8 minutes until browned and done. Remove and keep warm.
3. Cook penne in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt 6 tbsp butter. Add garlic and cook 1 min. Whisk in flour and cook 1–2 mins. Slowly whisk in milk until smooth.
5. Let simmer 5–6 mins, stirring often, until thickened. Stir in cheddar and Parmesan until creamy. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
6. Add penne and toss until coated. Stir in the last 2 tbsp garlic butter for richness.
7. Serve pasta topped with Cajun chicken. Enjoy hot and cheesy.
Prep Time: 10 min | Cook Time: 20 min | Total: 30 min
Servings: 6 | Calories: 750 per serving