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Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake That Comforts 4 Ways Recipe

Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake That Comforts 4 Ways Recipe


  • Author: Matteo
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Salt

Description

This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, all infused with a spicy Cajun kick. Baked to bubbly perfection and garnished with fresh green onions, this meal is perfect for a satisfying family dinner or gathering.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta

  • 8 oz penne pasta

Chicken & Seasoning

  • 1 lb chicken breast, diced
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Cheese & Sauce

  • 8 oz cream cheese
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup chopped green onions

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pasta dish later.
  2. Cook Pasta: Boil the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  3. Cook Chicken: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the diced chicken breast until browned and fully cooked through.
  4. Add Sauce Ingredients: To the skillet with chicken, add cream cheese, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning. Stir to combine.
  5. Melt Cream Cheese: Continue stirring until the cream cheese melts completely and forms a smooth, creamy sauce around the chicken.
  6. Combine Pasta and Sauce: Mix the cooked penne pasta into the skillet with the creamy chicken mixture until well coated.
  7. Prepare for Baking: Transfer the pasta and chicken mixture to a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  8. Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the pasta bake.
  9. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
  10. Garnish and Serve: Remove from oven and sprinkle chopped green onions over the top before serving for a fresh, colorful finish.

Notes

  • You can substitute penne with other pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli if preferred.
  • For a spicier dish, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Ensure the chicken is fully cooked before adding the sauce to avoid undercooked meat.
  • The dish can be prepared in advance and baked when ready to serve.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approx. 1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 520 kcal
  • Sugar: 4 g
  • Sodium: 550 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 40 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta, creamy chicken bake, comfort food, easy pasta bake, cheesy chicken pasta