Cajun Chicken Bites with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce
Cajun Chicken Bites with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings the essence of Southern cuisine to your dinner table. This recipe features tender chicken bites seasoned with zesty Cajun spices, perfectly paired with a rich, creamy penne pasta coated in gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a special gathering, this dish is quick to prepare and sure to impress your family and friends. With its bold flavors and comforting textures, it’s a go-to meal for any occasion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the penne pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Toss chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the seasoned chicken until golden brown and cooked through.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic. Whisk in flour to create a roux.
- Gradually add milk and cream while whisking until smooth; simmer until thickened.
- Stir in cheeses until melted; season to taste.
- Combine cooked penne and chicken with the sauce; heat through before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 675
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 34g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 64g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 125mg