Description
A creamy and flavorful Cajun pasta bake that’s simple to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
- Mix in the softened cream cheese, stirring until melted and well combined.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to create a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Stir in shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until creamy and all the cheese is melted.
- Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet, then mix in the drained pasta, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
For variety, try swapping chicken for shrimp or tofu. You can also mix in spicy sausage or mushrooms for different flavor profiles.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Cajun, Pasta Bake, Comfort Food, Chicken, Easy Dinner