Cheesy Cajun Chicken Penne in Creamy Garlic Velveeta Parmesan Sauce
Ingredients:
1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thick strips
1½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
12 oz penne pasta
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
5 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Directions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a bowl, season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.
3. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sear for 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the pieces are golden-brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. Lower the heat to medium, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the same pan, and add minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits for flavor. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Add Velveeta cubes and stir until melted and smooth. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.
7. Stir in Italian seasoning, and if you want a little kick, add crushed red pepper flakes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed — it should be buttery, garlicky, and rich with Cajun spice.
8. Add the cooked penne to the skillet, tossing until every tube is coated in the creamy garlic cheese sauce. Let it simmer on low for a minute to thicken slightly.
9. Arrange the golden Cajun chicken beside or over the pasta. Spoon some extra sauce over the chicken for that perfect glossy finish.
10. Sprinkle with parsley and an extra pinch of Parmesan before serving warm.
Cooking Time:30 minutes
Servings:4
Calories: 820 per serving