Garlic Parmesan Chicken Twisted Pasta in Spicy Three-Cheese Cajun Sauce
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Twisted Pasta in Spicy Three-Cheese Cajun Sauce combines tender chicken and twisted pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy cheese sauce. This dish is perfect for anyone craving bold, comforting flavors that are easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. The garlic and Cajun seasoning create a delightful flavor explosion while the three-cheese sauce provides a luscious texture. Served warm and garnished with fresh herbs, this pasta dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for coating the chicken
- 12 oz twisted pasta (gemelli, fusilli, or any twisty shape)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, for sauce
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, optional
- Fresh parsley or dried herbs, for garnish
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook twisted pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; coat with grated Parmesan.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and butter. Sear chicken until cooked through (5–7 minutes). Add minced garlic in the last minute of cooking.
- Remove chicken; in the same skillet, melt remaining butter and sauté garlic briefly. Pour in cream and broth; bring to simmer.
- Stir in softened cream cheese, then gradually add mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan until thickened.
- Season sauce to taste with Italian seasoning. Toss cooked pasta with the sauce until evenly coated.
- Serve topped with garlic Parmesan chicken strips and garnish as desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 670
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 180mg