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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake

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This creamy Cajun chicken pasta bake is a one-pan, family-friendly comfort food packed with bold Cajun spices, tender chicken, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights, and sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 7 oz) uncooked penne or rigatoni
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • Optional: 1 cup sliced mushrooms
  • Optional: 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Optional: Red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook for 6-7 minutes until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a bowl, toss chicken chunks with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper until evenly coated. Marinate for 15 minutes if time allows.
  4. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned but not fully cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, add diced bell pepper, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  6. Lower heat to medium. Stir in drained tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Add cream cheese and whisk until smooth and creamy. Add more Cajun seasoning if desired.
  7. Return chicken to the skillet along with cooked pasta. Toss gently to coat everything in the sauce. Fold in peas or mushrooms if using. Taste and adjust salt and pepper.
  8. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.
  9. Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is melted and bubbly and edges are golden brown. Tent with foil if cheese browns too quickly.
  10. Let sit for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta and reduce baking time by 3-5 minutes. For dairy-free, substitute coconut cream and vegan cheeses. Let the bake rest before serving for a creamier texture. Add extra broth or cream if the mixture seems dry before baking. Broil for 2 minutes at the end for a crispy cheese top, but watch closely to avoid burning.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta bake, creamy pasta bake, one-pan dinner, family recipe, comfort food, easy casserole, spicy chicken pasta, weeknight meal

Find it online: https://realityeats.com/creamy-cajun-chicken-pasta-bake-easy-one-pan-recipe-for-families/