Description
This hearty and flavorful casserole combines tender chicken, creamy cheeses, and a zesty Cajun kick, all baked together for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
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12 oz penne or rotini pasta
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2 chicken breasts, cubed
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1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 small onion, diced
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1 red bell pepper, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1 cup heavy cream
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1 cup chicken broth
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1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
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½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
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1 teaspoon paprika
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season the cubed chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
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In the same skillet, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the cream cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and smooth.
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Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and paprika. Continue to cook until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is creamy.
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Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, stirring to coat evenly with the sauce.
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Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
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Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
For added spice, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the sauce mixture.
This dish can be made ahead of time; assemble it and refrigerate before baking. When ready to serve, bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms or spinach.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun-American
Keywords: Cajun pasta bake, chicken pasta casserole, creamy pasta bake, comfort food, Cajun seasoning