Name: Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 12 oz penne or rotini pasta; 2 pieces chicken breasts, cubed; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (Adjust for spice preference); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 1 piece red bell pepper, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup heavy cream (Can substitute with half-and-half); 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp paprika; to taste Salt and pepper; to taste Chopped parsley (Optional)

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Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a dish that I simply can’t get enough of. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth and comfort, perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re looking to please a crowd. The creamy sauce, spiced-up chicken, and delightful blend of cheeses create a symphony of flavors that you just can’t resist. I often whip this recipe up for family gatherings or casual weeknight dinners; the aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible!

What makes this recipe special

Why take the time to cook Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake at home? For starters, it’s a fantastic one-pot meal that brings together rich flavors without a lot of fuss. The combination of spicy Cajun seasoning with the creamy goodness of cream cheese creates a uniquely comforting dish that pleases both kids and adults alike. Plus, it’s adaptable and budget-friendly, making it a great option for any night of the week.

“This dish has become a staple in our house! It’s so creamy and delicious, everyone keeps coming back for seconds!”

Preparing Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Let’s dive into the process of making this delectable pasta bake. You’ll be happy to know that it’s straightforward, involving just a few simple steps. To give you a confident start, here’s what you can expect:

Cook your pasta.
Sauté chicken with spices for that kick.
Create a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s perfectly melded with veggies.
Combine everything and bake until golden!

With these steps in mind, you’ll be ready to whip up a fantastic dish that’s sure to impress.

What you’ll need

Gather the following key ingredients for this creamy dish:

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)

Feel free to swap out the chicken for shrimp or tofu if you want different protein options!

Step-by-step instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and Cajun seasoning, cooking until golden brown and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and well combined.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to create a smooth sauce. Mix in shredded cheddar, grated Parmesan, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring until creamy.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir in the drained pasta until well combined.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve hot.

Best ways to enjoy it

The beauty of Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake lies in its versatility. It can stand alone as a satisfying main dish, but here are a few ideas to elevate your dining experience:

Pair with a fresh salad for a refreshing crunch.
Serve with garlic bread to soak up that delicious cream sauce.
Complement with a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to balance the flavors.

Keeping leftovers fresh

When it comes to storing your Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake, here are a few simple tips:

Refrigerate: Cool leftovers to room temperature, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze: If you won’t finish it within a few days, freeze individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.
Reheat: Warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of chicken broth can help revive that creamy texture.

Practical cooking tips

To make your cooking experience even smoother, keep these pro tips in mind:

Cook the pasta a bit under al dente; it will continue cooking in the oven.
Adjust the Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference—feel free to control the heat!
For added texture, consider topping with breadcrumbs before baking for a crunchy finish.

Creative twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some variations you can try to keep things exciting:

Add cooked spinach or kale to the mix for a nutritional boost.
Substitute the chicken for shrimp or sausage for a different flavor profile.
Kick up the heat by adding diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

Your questions answered

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

Preparation takes approximately 15 minutes, and baking takes 20-25 minutes, so you can have it on your table in less than an hour.

Can I substitute heavy cream?

Yes! You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute for a lighter option, though it may slightly alter the texture.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Just remember to cool it completely before freezing, and it should maintain its flavor and texture when reheated.

This recipe for Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a surefire hit with family and friends. With its creamy goodness, perfect blend of flavors, and ease of preparation, why wait? Get cooking!