Print

Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce

Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Tender garlic-seared chicken served over perfectly cooked penne pasta and coated in a creamy, cheesy Cajun-spiced mozzarella sauce. This rich and flavorful dish brings together bold Southern heat with classic Italian comfort—perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing pasta night.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Pasta:

  • 12 oz penne pasta

  • Salt, for boiling water

For the Mozzarella Cajun Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 2 cups whole milk (or half & half for extra creaminess)

  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Optional Garnish:

  1. Fresh chopped parsley

  2. Extra grated mozzarella or Parmesan

  3. Red pepper flakes (for added heat)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

  2. Sear the Chicken: Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add chicken and sear 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from pan and let rest for a few minutes, then slice.

  3. Make the Cajun Mozzarella Sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and melt. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in milk, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens (about 3–5 minutes).

  4. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for another 2 minutes.

  5. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.

  6. Assemble and Serve: Plate the creamy Cajun penne and top with sliced seared garlic chicken. Garnish with parsley, extra cheese, or red pepper flakes if desired.

Find it online: https://easyfoodathome.com/seared-garlic-chicken-penne-in-mozzarella-cajun-sauce/