Description
This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy, and spicy dish packed with bold flavors. Tender chicken, al dente penne pasta, and a luscious Cajun-spiced cheese sauce come together in this easy-to-make baked pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish is sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta:
- Boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season cubed chicken with Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add cream cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir over medium heat until smooth.
- Add Flavor:
- Mix in garlic powder, paprika, Parmesan cheese, and diced tomatoes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Combine Everything:
- Add cooked pasta and sautéed chicken to the sauce, stirring to coat evenly.
- Mix in half of the shredded mozzarella.
- Bake the Dish:
- Transfer to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden.
- Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- Make it Spicier: Add red pepper flakes or extra Cajun seasoning.
- Add Veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added texture.
- Protein Swap: Use shrimp or sausage instead of chicken for a twist.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta.
- Cheese Blend: Try a mix of mozzarella, cheddar, or pepper jack for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta Bake
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern
