Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce

Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce is the perfect dish for any occasion, from a cozy family dinner to entertaining guests. This hearty meal combines tender chicken, creamy cheese, and zesty Cajun flavors, making it a delightful choice that will impress everyone at the table. With its rich texture and satisfying taste, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic and Cajun seasoning creates a unique flavor profile that elevates your pasta experience.
• Cheesy Goodness: With three types of cheese melted into the sauce, every bite is creamy and rich.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for both casual family meals and special occasions; it’s sure to please both kids and adults.
• One-Pan Wonder: Most of the cooking happens in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the penne pasta evenly and efficiently.
• Skillet: Ideal for searing chicken and creating the creamy sauce all in one pan.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping ingredients like garlic and parsley.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes it easier to cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Pasta

• 1 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thick-cut into bite-sized pieces
• 12 oz penne pasta
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided

For the Seasoning

• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, plus more to taste
• tsp garlic powder
• tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 oz cream cheese, softened

For Garnish (Optional)

• 2 tbsp chopped parsley or chives

How to Make Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne until al dente, then drain and set aside. Reserve a cup of pasta water just in case the sauce needs thinning later.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well until each piece is fully coated.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer:
1. Sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.
2. Flip and cook the other side until done.
3. In the last minute of cooking, add half of the minced garlic to the skillet and toss everything together.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet:
1. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the remaining minced garlic and sauté just until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
3. Pour in heavy cream and low-sodium chicken broth; let it gently simmer for 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in cream cheese until smooth.

Step 5: Add Cheeses

Add Velveeta cheese, mozzarella cheese, and Parmesan cheese into the skillet:
1. Stir constantly over low heat until all cheeses are melted together into a thick, creamy sauce.

Step 6: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Add cooked penne into the skillet:
1. Toss until fully coated in sauce.
2. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water for consistency.

Step 7: Serve

To serve:
1. Spoon cheesy penne onto one side of each plate.
2. Arrange golden seared garlic chicken on the other side.
3. Spoon extra sauce on top if desired.
4. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives if using.

Enjoy your Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce! This dish promises comfort food at its finest while being quick enough for any night of the week.

How to Serve Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce

Serving Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce is all about presentation and maximizing flavor. This creamy dish pairs well with various sides and garnish options that enhance its deliciousness.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley or chives – Sprinkle fresh herbs over the top for a burst of color and flavor.

With Extra Sauce

• Extra creamy sauce – Spoon additional sauce over the chicken for a richer taste experience.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed greens salad – Serve the penne on a bed of arugula or spinach for added freshness and crunch.

With Grated Cheese

• Additional cheese topping – Offer grated Parmesan or mozzarella on the side for those who love extra cheese.

With Crusty Bread

• Garlic bread or baguette – Pair with warm, crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

How to Perfect Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce

To achieve the best results with your Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce, follow these helpful tips for a flawless dish.

• Use thick-cut chicken pieces – Thick cuts ensure that the chicken stays juicy during cooking.
• Adjust seasoning to taste – Feel free to add more Cajun seasoning if you enjoy a spicier kick.
• Reserve pasta water wisely – Keep some pasta water on hand to adjust sauce consistency when mixing in the penne.
• Melt cheeses on low heat – Avoid high heat when melting cheeses to prevent separation and maintain creaminess.
• Sauté garlic until fragrant – Be careful not to burn garlic; it should be just fragrant before adding liquids.
• Let it simmer gently – Allow the sauce to simmer; this helps develop deeper flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce

Complementing your Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce with side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal veggies tossed in olive oil and roasted until tender adds color and nutrients.
2. Caesar Salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy penne.
3. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds fiber and balances out the richness of the dish.
4. Crispy Brussels Sprouts – Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze provide a slightly sweet and nutty flavor.
5. Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn complements the bold flavors of the Cajun sauce beautifully.
6. Caprese Salad Skewers – Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic make for a light appetizer.
7. Stuffed Bell Peppers – Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices make an eye-catching side.
8. Herbed Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad with herbs adds a nutritious touch that pairs well with any pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be a delightful experience, but certain mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect dishes. Here are some common pitfalls to steer clear of while preparing Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce.

• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Failing to season the chicken well can result in bland flavor. Make sure to coat the chicken evenly with Cajun seasoning and spices for the best taste.

• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking penne for too long can make it mushy. Always follow package instructions and aim for al dente for the perfect texture.

• Skipping the reserved pasta water: Not reserving pasta water before draining can limit your sauce’s creaminess. Use it if needed to adjust consistency later on.

• Incorrect heat levels: Cooking on too high a heat can burn garlic or overcook chicken. Use medium-high heat and keep an eye on your ingredients for optimal results.

• Not letting the sauce thicken enough: Rushing the sauce will lead to a watery mix instead of a creamy one. Allow it to simmer so all flavors meld together beautifully.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for best flavor and freshness.

Freezing Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months; label with date for reference.

Reheating Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish, covered, in 1-minute intervals until warm, stirring between sessions.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While penne is great for this recipe, any pasta shape like fusilli or rigatoni will work well too.

How spicy is this recipe?

The spice level largely depends on how much Cajun seasoning you use. Adjust according to your preference!

Can I customize the cheese used in this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to mix different types of cheese like gouda, cheddar, or even vegan options if desired.

What sides go well with Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce?

A fresh salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with this creamy dish, enhancing the overall meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce is not just delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices. We encourage you to try this recipe; it’s sure to impress family and friends alike!