Treat your tastebuds to a bold, creamy, and zesty pasta dish that combines Cajun-seasoned chicken with rich garlic butter Alfredo and a twist of lemon. This Garlic Butter Penne with Lemon Chicken Alfredo is the ultimate comfort food — easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for a cozy dinner at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Cajun flavor with a touch of lemony freshness
Ultra-creamy garlic butter Alfredo sauce
Quick and easy — ready in under 40 minutes
Perfect balance of protein, pasta, and cheese
Family-friendly, crowd-pleasing meal

Ingredients Breakdown

Protein & Seasoning:

Chicken Breasts (1 lb, boneless, skinless, diced):
Lean and tender, the chicken is coated in bold Cajun spices for flavor-packed bites.
Olive Oil (2 tbsp):
Helps the seasoning stick to the chicken and promotes browning.
Cajun Seasoning (2 tbsp) & Paprika (1 tsp):
Adds a smoky, spicy kick to the dish.

Pasta:

Penne Pasta (1 lb):
Perfect for soaking up the creamy Alfredo sauce and holding its shape.

Creamy Garlic Lemon Alfredo Sauce:

Unsalted Butter (½ cup / 1 stick):
Forms the rich garlic butter base.
Garlic (6 cloves, minced):
Infuses the sauce with deep, savory aroma.
Heavy Cream (½ cup):
Creates a velvety, luscious texture.
Parmesan Cheese (½ cup, grated):
Adds nuttiness, salt, and thickens the sauce.
Chicken Broth (¼ cup):
Lightens the sauce and enhances the savory depth.
Lemon Juice (2 tbsp):
Adds a refreshing, bright flavor that balances the richness.
Salt & Black Pepper (¼ tsp each):
Essential for rounding out and sharpening the flavor.

Finishing Touches:

Mozzarella Cheese (½ cup, shredded):
Melts into the pasta for a gooey, cheesy finish.
Chopped Green Onions:
A fresh, mild garnish that adds color and a pop of flavor.

Tips and Tricks

Control the heat: Adjust Cajun seasoning or use mild paprika if cooking for kids.
Don’t overcook the pasta: It should be al dente to hold its shape in the sauce.
Lemon balance: Start with 1 tablespoon lemon juice if you’re unsure about the acidity level.

Variations and Customizations

Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist
Add spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for extra veggies and color
Substitute fettuccine or rigatoni if penne isn’t on hand
Make it spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce

Pairing Suggestions

Side Salad: Caesar salad or arugula with lemon vinaigrette
Bread: Garlic bread or warm focaccia
Drink: A crisp Chardonnay or sparkling lemonade

Storage Instructions

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days
Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet with a splash of milk or broth
Freezing: Not recommended due to the dairy-based sauce separating upon thawing

Garlic Butter Penne with Lemon Chicken and Alfredo

Author: easysweetmeal
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

Creamy, zesty, and packed with flavor! Tender Cajun-spiced chicken, garlic butter penne, and a rich Parmesan Alfredo sauce with a bright lemon twist—topped with melty mozzarella and green onions. Ready in 30 minutes

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1 pound penne pasta
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
6 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup chicken broth
2 tablespoons lemon juice
¼ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Chopped green onions, for garnish

Instructions

1. Season the Chicken

In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and paprika. Toss until evenly coated.
Let it marinate while you prepare the pasta.

2. Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook the penne pasta according to package directions until al dente.
Drain and set aside.

3. Sauté the Garlic

In a large skillet, melt ½ cup butter over medium-high heat.
Add 6 minced garlic cloves and cook for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant.

4. Cook the Chicken

Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet.
Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.

5. Create the Alfredo Sauce

Lower the heat. Stir in ½ cup heavy cream, ½ cup Parmesan cheese, ¼ cup chicken broth, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, ¼ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon pepper.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes, stirring until smooth and creamy.

6. Combine the Pasta

Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet.
Toss gently to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce.

7. Add Mozzarella and Melt

Sprinkle ½ cup shredded mozzarella over the pasta.
Cover the skillet and let sit for 1–2 minutes, just until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.

8. Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped green onions for a fresh finish.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

This recipe delivers a restaurant-quality Alfredo dish in under 40 minutes.
Ideal for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving something creamy, comforting, and a little indulgent.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American