why make this recipe
Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that combines creamy textures with a bit of spice. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings, providing a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. This dish is not only filling but also easy to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, pasta, and a cheesy sauce makes it a favorite for both kids and adults. Plus, it’s all baked together, which makes cleanup a breeze!
how to make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients
- 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
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the penne or rotini according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and Cajun seasoning; cook until browned (about 5–7 minutes).
- Remove the chicken and sauté diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic in the same skillet for about 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in cream cheese until melted; then add heavy cream and chicken broth to create a smooth sauce.
- Mix in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Combine cooked chicken with the sauce and drained pasta; mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving hot.
how to serve Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake
Serve the Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake hot from the oven. You can garnish it with some fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for added color and flavor. Pair it with a simple side salad or some garlic bread to complete the meal. It’s perfect for serving family-style at the dinner table or for a cozy night in.
how to store Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake
To store leftovers, let the pasta bake cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
tips to make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake
- For a bit more heat, add extra Cajun seasoning or some diced jalapeños to the dish.
- You can use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation time.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or use lower-fat cream cheese.
variation
You can customize this dish by adding vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. For a vegetarian option, skip the chicken and add more vegetables or some cooked beans for protein.
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like! Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
2. How can I make it spicier?
To make it spicier, you can either add more Cajun seasoning or include some hot sauce into the cream sauce.
3. Can I freeze the Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake?
Yes, you can freeze it before or after baking. Just make sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly and storing it in the freezer.
Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake
Ingredients
Pasta and Protein
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta Use any pasta shape you like.
- 2 pieces chicken breasts, cubed You can use rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
Vegetables and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Add more for extra heat.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 piece red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened Substitute with lower-fat cream cheese for a lighter version.
- 1 cup heavy cream Substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the penne or rotini according to package instructions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cubed chicken and Cajun seasoning; cook until browned (about 5–7 minutes).
- Remove the chicken and sauté diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic in the same skillet for about 3–4 minutes.
Sauce and Assembly
- Stir in cream cheese until melted; then add heavy cream and chicken broth to create a smooth sauce.
- Mix in shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Combine cooked chicken with the sauce and drained pasta; mix well.
Baking
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving hot.
