Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake
A delightful pasta bake featuring creamy textures and a touch of spice, perfect for family dinners.
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.
Notes
Serve hot and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread.