Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

why make this recipe

Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a delicious and comforting dish that brings the flavors of Cajun cuisine into a creamy pasta bake. It’s perfect for a family dinner or a gathering with friends. The combination of tender chicken, rich cream cheese, and zesty Cajun spices makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and easy to bake, so you won’t have to spend all day in the kitchen.

how to make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Ingredients :

• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 8 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
• 1 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Optional: sliced green onions or parsley for garnish

Directions :

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken and Cajun seasoning, cooking until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Add butter and minced garlic to the skillet, sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
5. Stir in heavy cream, cream cheese, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella until melted and combined.
6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, mixing well to coat the pasta with the sauce.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle more mozzarella on top if desired.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
9. Garnish with sliced green onions or parsley before serving.

how to serve Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Serve this dish hot, straight from the oven. It pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread. You can also sprinkle additional green onions or parsley on top for a fresh touch.

how to store Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

tips to make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

• For extra flavor, marinate the diced chicken in Cajun seasoning for about 30 minutes before cooking.
• You can use any pasta shape you like, but penne or rigatoni hold the sauce well.
• Feel free to add vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, for added nutrition.

variation

You can make a vegetarian version by substituting the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or chickpeas. You can also adjust the level of spiciness by using mild or hot Cajun seasoning according to your taste.

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of cheese?
Yes, you can substitute with cheeses like cheddar or gouda for a different flavor.

2. Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning used. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the dish, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.