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Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

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A creamy and flavorful pasta bake with tender chicken, Cajun spices, and a rich cheese sauce that makes for a delightful family meal.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

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

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the cubed chicken and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Without cleaning the skillet, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
  5. Stir in the cream cheese, allowing it to melt and blend with the vegetables.
  6. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring until you achieve a smooth, creamy sauce. Fold in the shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, paprika, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the sauce is thick and luxurious.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix in the drained pasta until everything is fully incorporated.
  8. Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  9. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
  10. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

For variation, consider using pepper jack cheese for extra spice or adding more vegetables like spinach or zucchini.

  • Author: alison
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 470
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Fat: 27g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg