Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Introduction

What’s missing? A deliciously creamy, Cajun twist to your pasta night! If you’re looking to jazz up your dinner routine, I’ve got just the thing for you: a Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake that’s sure to warm both your belly and your heart! 🍽️❤️

Detailed Ingredients with measures

12 ounces penne pasta

2 boneless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon Cajun spice blend

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup heavy whipping cream

4 ounces cream cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 cup diced tomatoes

1/2 cup chicken broth

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon paprika

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh chopped parsley for garnish 🌿

Prep Time

20 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield in french

Cook Time: 20 minutes

Total Time: 40 minutes

Rendement: 4 portions

Now, let’s get cooking!

1. Start by boiling the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water until it’s al dente. Once it’s just right, drain the pasta and set it aside.

2. Season your diced chicken with that lovely Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. Once it’s done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

3. In the same skillet—because we want all those wonderful flavors to come together—combine the softened cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, and chicken broth. Stir it over medium heat until you’ve got a smooth and creamy blend. Yum!

4. Next up, sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix it all together, and then add in those diced tomatoes. Season with a bit of salt and pepper, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

5. Now let’s bring it all together: add the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken back into the skillet. Gently stir to combine everything, and then fold in half of that glorious shredded mozzarella.

6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with love, then pour the pasta, chicken, and sauce mixture into it. Top it off with the remaining mozzarella cheese—because we can never have too much cheese! 🧀

7. Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Just imagine that cheesy goodness!

8. Once it’s out of the oven, garnish with some fresh chopped parsley and serve warm. Your family (and your taste buds) will thank you!

Enjoy your meal and all the love that goes into making it! 💖

#CajunPasta #CreamyDeliciousness #FamilyDinner #PastaBake #ComfortFood

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Start by boiling the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water until it’s al dente. Once it’s just right, drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season your diced chicken with the Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat and cook the chicken until it turns golden brown and is cooked through. Once it’s done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

In the same skillet—because we want all those wonderful flavors to come together—combine the softened cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, and chicken broth. Stir it over medium heat until you’ve got a smooth and creamy blend.

Step 4: Season the Sauce

Sprinkle in the garlic powder, paprika, and grated Parmesan cheese. Mix it all together, then add the diced tomatoes. Season with a bit of salt and pepper, and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked pasta and sautéed chicken back into the skillet. Gently stir to combine everything, then fold in half of the shredded mozzarella.

Step 6: Preheat and Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish, then pour the pasta, chicken, and sauce mixture into it. Top it off with the remaining mozzarella cheese.

Step 7: Bake the Dish

Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Once it’s out of the oven, garnish with some fresh chopped parsley and serve warm.

Notes

Note 1: Pasta Cooking

Make sure not to overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the oven.

Note 2: Chicken Cooking

Ensure the chicken is cooked through to avoid any food safety issues.

Note 3: Cream Cheese Softening

For easier mixing, let the cream cheese soften at room temperature before use.

Note 4: Cheese Variations

Feel free to use different types of cheese such as cheddar or pepper jack for an added flavor twist.

Note 5: Extra Garnish

Add red pepper flakes or extra Cajun seasoning for a spicier kick if desired.

Cook techniques

Boiling Pasta

Boil the penne pasta in a large pot of salted water until it reaches al dente. This ensures the pasta maintains a slight firmness even after baking.

Seasoning Chicken

Season diced chicken with Cajun spice blend before cooking to infuse it with flavor. The seasoning adds a delicious kick to the dish.

Sautéing

Cook the seasoned chicken in olive oil over medium heat until golden brown. Sautéing in the same skillet allows the flavors to meld.

Creating a Creamy Sauce

Combine softened cream cheese, heavy whipping cream, and chicken broth in the skillet, stirring over medium heat until smooth and creamy.

Combining Ingredients

After preparing the sauce, mix in garlic powder, paprika, grated Parmesan, and diced tomatoes. This enriches the flavor profile.

Baking

Transfer the combined pasta, chicken, and sauce mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown for a delightful finish.

Garnishing

Add fresh chopped parsley as a garnish before serving to enhance presentation and add freshness to the dish.

FAQ

Can I use another type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute penne pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as rotini or fusilli.

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

If chicken broth is unavailable, you can use vegetable broth or even water in a pinch.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the pasta and sauce mixture, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just add the cheese and follow the baking instructions.

How can I make this dish spicier?

For extra spice, add more Cajun seasoning or include some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the sauce.

Can I add vegetables to the pasta bake?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition.

Is it possible to make this dish lighter?

To lighten the dish, use reduced-fat cream cheese, and substitute half-and-half for heavy whipping cream.

Conclusion

Discovering new and exciting flavors can transform your dinner routine into something special, and this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake does just that. With its creamy texture, zesty Cajun spice, and delightful combination of ingredients, it’s the perfect dish to warm your home and create lasting memories around the dinner table. Enjoy the love and joy that comes with each delectable bite!

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