Garlic Parmesan Chicken Twisted Pasta in Spicy Three-Cheese Cajun Sauce
Indulge in the creamy and flavorful Garlic Parmesan Chicken Twisted Pasta in Spicy Three-Cheese Cajun Sauce, a delightful dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. This recipe combines tender chicken strips coated in a cheesy crust with twisted pasta enveloped in a rich sauce made from three types of cheese, heavy cream, and zesty Cajun seasoning. The comforting flavors and creamy texture make it an instant hit with both kids and adults.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz twisted pasta (gemelli or fusilli)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (for coating chicken)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan (for sauce)
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Add twisted pasta and cook until al dente; drain.
- Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Press grated Parmesan into the chicken.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, sear the chicken in olive oil and butter for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
- Melt remaining butter in the same skillet; sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
- Whisk in softened cream cheese, then add mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan until melted and thickened.
- Combine pasta with sauce; simmer for about 12 minutes.
- Serve topped with garlic Parmesan chicken strips and garnish as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 120mg