Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake

In the realm of comfort food, few dishes can match the creamy, spicy delight of a Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake. This culinary masterpiece seamlessly marries tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, flavorful sauce, creating an experience that tantalizes the taste buds. The allure of this dish lies not only in its robust flavors but also in its simplicity and versatility. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner, hosting a family gathering, or meal prepping for the busy week ahead, this pasta bake is sure to impress.

Dive into the delicious world of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake—a perfect blend of tender chicken, pasta, and a rich, spicy sauce. This easy-to-make dish captures the essence of Cajun cuisine, offering a satisfying meal ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With simple ingredients and a step-by-step guide, even novice cooks can create a flavor-packed dinner that will impress family and friends. Get ready to savor the comforting taste of Louisiana in every bite!

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Ingredients

2 cups penne pasta

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 red bell pepper, diced

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a large baking dish (about 9x13 inches).

Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the penne pasta. Cook until al dente, according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the sauce: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Combine ingredients: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for about 2-3 minutes. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and season with salt and pepper.

Mix the pasta and sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta into the skillet and stir well to coat everything in the creamy sauce.

Prepare for baking: Transfer the pasta mixture into the greased baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.

Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Garnish and serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 minutes | 50 minutes | 6 servings