Description

Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake, a dish that brings warmth to your table with its bold flavors and comforting texture. This dish combines tender chicken, smooth cream cheese, and the zesty kick of Cajun seasoning, all baked to perfection with melty cheddar cheese. It’s a cozy meal perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you need a little spice to brighten your day!

Ingredients

• Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building the depth of flavor in this dish. Let’s take a closer look at them:
• Chicken Breasts (1 lb) – Lean, protein-packed, and the heart of this dish. Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts ensures a tender bite.
• Cream Cheese (8 oz) – The secret to the creamy, velvety sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
• Chicken Broth (1 cup) – Enhances the sauce’s flavor and ensures a smooth, pourable consistency.
• Diced Tomatoes (1 can) – Adds a slight acidity and sweetness to balance the spice.
• Cajun Seasoning (1 tbsp) – The star of the show! This spice blend brings a bold kick, transforming the dish into a Southern delight.
• Penne Pasta (8 oz) – A great pasta choice for holding onto the creamy sauce.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup) – Melts beautifully on top, giving a gooey, golden-brown finish.
• Salt and Pepper (to taste) – Enhances and balances the flavors.

Preparation Method

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.

In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the chicken breasts for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Once done, remove from the skillet and cut into bite-sized pieces.

Using the same skillet, add cream cheese, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and Cajun seasoning. Stir continuously over medium heat until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is well combined. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to enhance the flavors.

Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In the prepared baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and creamy Cajun sauce. Mix well to ensure every bite is coated in the luscious sauce.

Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pasta mixture. This will create a gooey, golden-brown crust on top.

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden brown.

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra Cajun seasoning for added flair.

Tips and Conclusion

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding cooked andouille sausage or shrimp to the bake. This will enhance the Cajun flair and add more depth to the dish.

Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate blend of comfort and spice, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a potluck dish, this creamy, cheesy delight will impress everyone at the table.

If you enjoyed this recipe, check out our other comforting pasta dishes like Buffalo Chicken Pasta Bake or Garlic Parmesan Shrimp Pasta. Happy cooking! 🍽️🔥