Description
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Twisted Pasta in Spicy Three-Cheese Cajun Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together bold flavors and creamy goodness, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings. This comforting pasta features tender chicken coated in a cheesy crust, all enveloped in a rich, spicy three-cheese sauce that will satisfy your cravings. The combination of Cajun spices and melty cheeses creates an irresistible meal that is both easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress your guests. Ready in just about 35 minutes, this recipe is versatile enough to allow for ingredient swaps, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz twisted pasta (gemelli or fusilli)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for coating)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter (divided)
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan (for sauce)
- 2 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or dried herbs (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook twisted pasta in a large pot of boiling salted water until al dente, then drain.
- Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Coat with grated Parmesan.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter; sear chicken until golden. Add minced garlic towards the end.
- Prepare the sauce by melting remaining butter in the skillet, then adding garlic, heavy cream, and broth. Stir until simmering.
- Incorporate cream cheese and cheeses until melted and thickened. Season with Italian herbs.
- Toss pasta into the sauce until well coated. Simmer briefly to absorb flavors.
- Serve topped with chicken strips and garnish with parsley.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 850
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 54g
- Saturated Fat: 31g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 62g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 165mg