Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warm embrace of a creamy pasta bake. The rich, velvety sauce enveloping tender pasta is enough to make anyone feel at home, and this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake takes that comfort to new heights. With its unique blend of spices and flavors derived from Cajun cuisine, this dish stands out as a delightful option for family dinners or social gatherings. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together around the table.

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake recipe. Infused with the bold, aromatic flavors of Cajun cuisine, this dish combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce for an unforgettable meal. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, it's easy to prepare ahead of time and reheat for leftovers that are just as delicious. Enjoy a comforting experience that brings everyone together around the table.

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Ingredients

8 ounces penne pasta

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, drained

1 cup heavy cream

1 cup chicken broth

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1/2 teaspoon salt (to taste)

1/4 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, add the cubed chicken and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Make the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat and add the drained diced tomatoes, heavy cream, and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir well, allowing the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.

Combine Ingredients: Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the cream sauce, stirring to combine all the ingredients evenly. Verify the seasoning; adjust if necessary.

Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Final Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 15 mins | 45 mins | Serves 4-6