If you’re craving a rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying meal, this Garlic Butter Cheddar-Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Penne is exactly what you need. It combines juicy Cajun-spiced chicken sautéed in garlic butter with tender pasta coated in a smooth, cheesy sauce that’s full of flavor.
This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or when you want something indulgent and comforting. The combination of cheddar and Parmesan creates a velvety sauce, while the seasoned chicken adds a bold, savory kick that takes this pasta to the next level.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s packed with rich, cheesy flavor and creamy texture.
The Cajun-spiced chicken adds a delicious bold twist.
It’s a complete, hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the chicken
2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tbsp olive oil
4 tbsp garlic butter, divided
2 tsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the pasta
1 lb penne pasta
6 tbsp butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
4 tbsp all-purpose flour
4 cups whole milk
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
Ingredient Tips
Use freshly grated cheese for a smoother and richer sauce.
Adjust Cajun seasoning depending on your preferred spice level.
Cook pasta just until al dente so it holds its texture in the sauce.
How to Make Garlic Butter Cheddar-Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Penne
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper, making sure they are evenly coated.
Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of garlic butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In a separate large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant.
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly to form a smooth roux.
Gradually pour in the milk while whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
Add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until fully melted and creamy.
Season the sauce with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder, adjusting to taste.
Add the cooked penne to the sauce and toss until every piece is evenly coated in the creamy cheese mixture.
Top the pasta with the garlic butter chicken or gently mix everything together, depending on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot with garlic bread for a complete comfort meal.
Add a fresh salad to balance the richness.
Garnish with parsley or extra Parmesan for added flavor.
Tips for Best Results
Do not overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
Whisk constantly when making the sauce to keep it smooth.
Add a splash of milk if the sauce becomes too thick.
Final Words
Garlic Butter Cheddar-Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Penne is the perfect blend of bold flavor and creamy comfort. With its rich sauce, tender chicken, and satisfying texture, it’s a dish that turns simple ingredients into something truly special.
Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to deliver warmth, flavor, and comfort in every bite.
PrintGarlic Butter Cheddar-Parmesan Chicken with Creamy Penne – The Ultimate Cheesy Comfort Pasta
Ingredients
For the chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp garlic butter, divided
- 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the pasta:
- 1 lb penne pasta
- 6 tbsp butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 4 cups whole milk
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
- ¼ tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of garlic butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining garlic butter and lightly sauté for added flavor, then remove chicken drippings if needed to prevent burning.
- In a separate large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly.
- Gradually pour in the milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes smooth.
- Stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Add the cooked penne to the cheese sauce and toss until evenly coated.
- Top the creamy pasta with the garlic butter chicken and gently mix or serve layered.