Description
Indulge in the creamy, spicy goodness of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Twisted Pasta in Spicy Three-Cheese Cajun Sauce. This mouthwatering dish combines tender chicken and twisted pasta enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce that packs a flavorful punch. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it promises to satisfy every palate with its delightful fusion of garlic, three different cheeses, and Cajun spices.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 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 cheese
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 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 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
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook twisted pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season chicken strips with Cajun seasoning and press grated Parmesan onto them.
- Sear the chicken in a skillet with olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter until golden brown; add minced garlic during the last minute.
- In the same skillet, create the sauce by melting another tablespoon of butter, sautéing remaining garlic, then adding heavy cream and chicken broth until simmering. Whisk in softened cream cheese, followed by mozzarella, cheddar, and remaining Parmesan.
- Combine cooked pasta with the sauce and simmer briefly to absorb flavors.
- Serve topped with chicken strips and garnished with parsley.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Searing and simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 850
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 50g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 150mg