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Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

A quick and easy weeknight dinner that's creamy, flavorful, and perfect for the whole family.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine Comfort Food, Southern
Servings 4 servings
Calories 550 kcal

Ingredients
  

Pasta

  • 12 oz penne or rotini pasta These shapes hold the sauce perfectly.

Chicken

  • 2 pieces chicken breasts, cubed A lean source of protein.

Sauce

  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning Adjust according to your spice level.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil For sautéing.
  • 1 small onion, diced Brings sweetness and depth.
  • 1 piece red bell pepper, diced Adds sweetness and color.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic.
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Binds the dish together.
  • 1 cup heavy cream For a luxurious texture.
  • 1 cup chicken broth Enhances overall flavor.
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese For classic comfort.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese Adds nutty flavor.
  • 1 tsp paprika Adds smokiness.
  • to taste Salt and pepper Essential for balancing flavors.
  • Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish) For freshness.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne or rotini pasta according to the package instructions, about 8-10 minutes until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Cooking

  • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the cubed chicken with Cajun seasoning until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  • In the same skillet, add diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  • Add softened cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted. Then, add heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to create a smooth sauce.
  • Stir in shredded cheddar cheese and grated Parmesan cheese, along with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the cheese melts and sauce thickens.
  • Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix in the drained pasta until well combined.

Baking

  • Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
  • Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

Make sure not to overcook the pasta and adjust seasoning to taste. Feel free to add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 43gProtein: 34gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gSodium: 800mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3g
Keyword Cajun Chicken Pasta, Comfort Food, Cream Cheese Pasta, Easy Dinner, Weeknight Meal
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