Description
This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a flavorful and creamy casserole featuring tender chicken, sautéed bell peppers and onions, and a rich Cajun-spiced cream cheese sauce. Baked until bubbly and topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, it makes for a comforting and easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta and Protein
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken breast, diced
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Sauces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Cheese and Garnish
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F to prepare for baking the pasta casserole.
- Cook Pasta: Boil the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add diced onion and bell peppers and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened.
- Add Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Combine Chicken and Seasoning: Add the cooked diced chicken and Cajun seasoning to the skillet, mixing thoroughly to coat the chicken and vegetables.
- Create Sauce: Reduce heat to low and add softened cream cheese, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts completely and forms a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Add Tomatoes and Season: Stir in the drained diced tomatoes, salt, and black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Mix Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta into the skillet and toss well to coat all the pasta evenly with the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour the pasta mixture into it. Spread it out evenly.
- Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly over the pasta.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving to add a fresh, vibrant touch.
Notes
- You can substitute rotisserie chicken for a time-saving option.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your preferred spice level.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like extra heat.
- For additional flavor and heartiness, consider adding smoked sausage slices.
