Cajun Garlic Chicken Penne in Cheesy Velveeta Sauce
Cajun Garlic Chicken Penne in Cheesy Velveeta Sauce is a dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. This flavorful pasta combines tender strips of chicken seasoned with Cajun spices, perfectly cooked penne, and a rich, creamy cheese sauce that envelops every bite. The combination of garlic and smoky paprika creates an aromatic experience, while the melt-in-your-mouth Velveeta cheese provides an irresistibly smooth texture. Perfect for cozy family dinners or lively gatherings with friends, this recipe not only satisfies hunger but also nourishes the soul.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 6 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne pasta until al dente (8–10 minutes). Reserve half a cup of starchy water before draining.
- Season chicken strips with salt, black pepper, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika.
- Heat olive oil and one tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken until golden brown (about 7 minutes), adding minced garlic during the last minute.
- In the same skillet, add heavy cream and remaining butter; simmer gently for 3 minutes.
- Stir in Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan until completely melted.
- Toss cooked penne into the sauce along with reserved pasta water as needed for consistency.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 880mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 51g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 135mg