Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Penne with Velveeta Cream Sauce
A rich, spicy, and creamy pasta dish that balances Cajun flavor with cheesy indulgence.
Ingredients
- chicken breasts
- Cajun seasoning
- olive oil
- penne pasta
- butter
- garlic
- all-purpose flour
- whole milk
- chicken broth
- Velveeta cheese
- Parmesan cheese
- smoked paprika
- red pepper flakes
- Salt & black pepper
- Fresh parsley
- Extra Cajun seasoning sprinkle
Method
- 1
Boil penne in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
- 2
Toss chicken strips with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning.
- 3
Heat olive oil in a large skillet, sear chicken until golden and fully cooked (5–6 minutes). Remove and keep warm.
- 4
In the same skillet, melt butter. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- 5
Stir in flour to make a light roux (1 minute).
- 6
Slowly whisk in warm milk and chicken broth until smooth.
- 7
Add Velveeta cubes, Parmesan, smoked paprika, and remaining Cajun seasoning. Stir until melted into a smooth, creamy sauce.
- 8
Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if needed.
- 9
Add cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce, tossing to coat well.
- 10
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun spice.
- 11
Garnish with parsley and a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning.
- 12
Serve hot with garlic bread or a side salad.
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