Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Zest
This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish that's perfect for a weeknight meal. Tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce infused with Cajun spices are baked to golden, bubbly perfection. It's comfort food elevated with a zesty kick.
Equipment
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 pound pasta penne, rotini, or shells
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Season with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, until fragrant.
- Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the softened cream cheese and Parmesan cheese until smooth and melted.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
- Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the pasta bake is heated through.
- Remove the pasta bake from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. Use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. Brown the butter before sautéing the onion and garlic for a nutty flavor. Add sliced andouille sausage for a smoky kick. Overcooked pasta will become mushy in the bake, so aim for al dente. Ensure the cream cheese is softened for a smooth consistency. Simmering the sauce allows the flavors to meld and thicken, so don't rush this step.