Garlic Parmesan Chicken Twisted Pasta in Spicy Three-Cheese Cajun Sauce
Garlic Parmesan Chicken Twisted Pasta in Spicy Three-Cheese Cajun Sauce is a delectable dish that brings together tender chicken strips, twisted pasta, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce infused with zesty Cajun flavors. This comforting meal is perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, offering a delightful balance of cheesy goodness and spice. With its quick preparation and mouthwatering taste, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Serve it up family-style or plated for an elegant touch; this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 12 oz twisted pasta (gemelli or fusilli)
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1 cup shredded cheddar
- 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
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for sauce)
- 2 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 tsp dried basil
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Fresh parsley or dried herbs for garnish
Instructions
- Cook twisted pasta in salted water until al dente; drain.
- Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Coat with grated Parmesan.
- Sear seasoned chicken in olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter until golden brown, then add garlic to create garlic butter.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining tablespoon of butter and sauté garlic. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; whisk in softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Stir in mozzarella, cheddar, and additional Parmesan until thickened; season as desired.
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until well-coated; let simmer for about 12 minutes.
- Serve topped with garlic Parmesan chicken strips and sprinkle with fresh parsley.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 145mg