Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Garlic Butter Penne with Lemon Chicken and Alfredo

Garlic Butter Penne with Lemon Chicken and Alfredo


  • Author: easysweetmeal
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x

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