Description
A creamy, flavorful Cajun chicken pasta bake combining tender diced chicken seasoned with Cajun spices, penne pasta, and a rich cream cheese sauce, topped with melted mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, and baked to golden perfection. This hearty dish is perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the penne pasta according to the package instructions, typically boiling for about 10-12 minutes until al dente. Drain and set the pasta aside for later use.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breasts and sprinkle the Cajun seasoning evenly over them. Cook the chicken for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned on the outside and thoroughly cooked inside.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low and add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream to the skillet with the cooked chicken. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Then, add the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, stirring until the cheeses melt completely and the sauce is well combined.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta directly into the skillet with the creamy chicken sauce. Toss everything together gently to ensure the pasta is evenly coated with the cheesy Cajun sauce.
- Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top becomes golden brown and bubbly, indicating the cheese is perfectly melted and the dish is heated through.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pasta bake from the oven and sprinkle the chopped green onions over the top for a fresh, vibrant finish. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add some red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli if preferred.
- Ensure the cream cheese is softened before mixing to help it incorporate smoothly into the sauce.
- This dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make it lighter, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative.
