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Cajun Chicken Bites with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce

Cajun Chicken Bites with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce
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Enjoy flavorful Cajun Chicken Bites with Cheesy Penne Parmesan Sauce that will impress your family! Try this easy recipe tonight!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • 3 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne and cook until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. 2. In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
  3. 3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 6–8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
  4. 4. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. 5. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a light roux. Slowly pour in milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly until smooth. Let it simmer for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.
  6. 6. Reduce heat and stir in cream cheese until melted. Then add mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and more Cajun seasoning if desired. Stir until thickened; season with salt and pepper. Thin with reserved pasta water if needed.
  7. 7. Add cooked penne and chicken bites into the sauce. Stir gently to coat everything in cheesy goodness. Allow it all to warm together for about 1–2 minutes.
  8. 8. Top with fresh parsley if desired, then serve hot!

Nutrition

Keywords: For added veggies, consider incorporating bell peppers or spinach during cooking. Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning.

Find it online: https://fluffyrecipes.com/cajun-chicken-bites-with-cheesy-penne-parmesan-sauce/