Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce

Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce is a delightful dish that combines the richness of creamy cheeses with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe is sure to impress both family and guests alike. The comforting pasta, tender chicken, and luscious sauce create a balance of textures and tastes that will leave everyone coming back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With a cooking time of just 35 minutes, this meal fits perfectly into busy schedules.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, Cajun spices, and creamy cheeses delivers a vibrant taste profile.
• Versatile Dish: This recipe can easily be adapted to suit different preferences by substituting proteins or cheese types.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The rich and creamy sauce appeals to both kids and adults, making it ideal for family gatherings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since most steps take place in a single skillet.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make the cooking process smoother. Here’s what you’ll need to create your Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Tongs

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the penne pasta to the perfect al dente texture.
• Skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Tongs: Useful for flipping and serving the chicken while keeping it intact.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thick-cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, plus more to taste
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ 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.
1. Cook penne until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water just in case the sauce needs thinning.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a bowl, season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
1. Toss well until each piece is evenly coated.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

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

Step 4: Make the Sauce

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

Step 5: Add Cheeses

Add Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses to the skillet.
1. Stir constantly over low heat until thickened, melted, and creamy.

Step 6: Combine Pasta

Add cooked penne into the skillet with sauce.
1. Toss until fully coated; add reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.

Step 7: Serve

To serve your dish:
1. Spoon cheesy penne onto one side of each plate.
2. Arrange golden seared garlic chicken on top or alongside.
3. Spoon extra sauce over everything; garnish with chopped parsley or chives if desired.

Enjoy your Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce!

How to Serve Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce

Serving Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce can enhance its delicious flavors and create a delightful dining experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this dish.

Plating Ideas

• Elegant Presentation: Use a large, flat plate to arrange the penne on one side and the chicken on the other. Drizzle extra sauce over the dish for an appealing look.
• Family-Style Serving: Place the entire skillet on the table, allowing guests to serve themselves. This adds a casual and inviting touch to your meal.

Garnishing Suggestions

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and a fresh taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Offer red pepper flakes on the side for those who enjoy an extra kick of spice.

Accompaniments

• Garlic Bread: Serve with warm garlic bread for dipping in the creamy sauce.
• Side Salad: A light mixed green salad with a vinaigrette pairs nicely and balances the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce

Perfecting your Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce can elevate your cooking game. Follow these tips for an outstanding dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper according to your preference.
• Monitor Cooking Time: Cook chicken until golden brown but avoid overcooking; juicy chicken makes all the difference.
• Utilize Pasta Water: Reserve pasta water helps adjust sauce consistency without losing flavor—add it gradually.
• Experiment with Cheeses: Feel free to mix other cheeses like gouda or cheddar for varied flavor profiles.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the completed dish to rest a few minutes before serving lets flavors meld beautifully.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Seared Garlic Chicken Penne can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients; steam lightly to maintain crunch.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides crispness and complements the creamy penne well.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Drizzle asparagus with olive oil and roast until tender; it adds elegance to your plate.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn is a fun finger food that balances savory flavors; boil or grill with butter.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic pair perfectly with the rich sauce.
6. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in lemon juice offers crispness and acidity against creamy pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

• Bold seasoning: Skipping the seasoning can lead to bland chicken. Make sure to coat your chicken pieces well with Cajun seasoning and other spices for maximum flavor.
• Bold cooking chicken too quickly: Cooking the chicken at too high a heat may cause it to burn on the outside while remaining raw inside. Always sear over medium-high heat and allow it to cook thoroughly.
• Bold undercooking pasta: If you don’t cook the penne al dente, it may turn mushy when mixed with the sauce. Follow the package instructions and taste before draining.
• Bold ignoring sauce thickness: A sauce that’s too thin will not cling well to the pasta. Use reserved pasta water gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.
• Bold not tasting during cooking: Failing to taste as you cook can lead to unbalanced flavors. Adjust seasoning as needed throughout the process.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Let cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Divide into portions for easy thawing and reheating later.

Reheating Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over low heat, add a splash of broth or water and stir frequently until heated through.

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?

You can substitute any pasta shape you prefer! Just adjust cooking time according to the package directions.

How can I make this recipe lighter?

To lighten the dish, consider using low-fat cream and reducing the amount of cheese. You can also add more vegetables for added nutrition.

What should I serve with my Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce?

A fresh salad or steamed vegetables pairs nicely with this dish, balancing its rich flavors.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook everything ahead of time and reheat just before serving. This makes it perfect for meal prep!

Final Thoughts

Seared Garlic Chicken Penne in Mozzarella Cajun Sauce is a delightful blend of flavors that promises satisfaction with every bite. The creamy texture and zesty kick make it versatile enough for family dinners or entertaining guests. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level—this recipe is sure to impress!