Description
A comforting and easy-to-make pasta bake loaded with creamy flavors and a spicy Cajun kick.
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
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and Cajun seasoning, cooking until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
- Add the cream cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and combined.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to create a smooth sauce.
- Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Mix everything together.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bake for 20 to 25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Feel free to adapt the recipe with different proteins or cheeses to suit your taste!