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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: 6 Unforgettable Reasons

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that brings together comforting flavors, a luscious creamy texture, and a perfect blend of spices, making it a go-to meal for any occasion. This recipe is versatile enough for a weeknight family dinner or an impressive dish to serve at gatherings. The ease of preparation combined with hearty ingredients results in a satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Indulge in the rich flavors of Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake, a perfect blend of creamy texture and spices. This easy recipe is ideal for family dinners or gatherings, featuring tender chicken, penne pasta, and a decadent cheese topping. With a hint of Cajun seasoning, each bite is a warm, comforting experience. Serve it fresh or enjoy leftovers for a delicious meal that everyone will love. Discover the joy of Cajun cuisine with this delightful dish!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups penne pasta
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the Pasta: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. Season the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken with Cajun seasoning, ensuring the chicken is evenly coated.
  4. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  5. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add diced onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the peppers are tender, about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium, then add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for about 3-4 minutes.
  7. Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked penne pasta. Stir in half of the cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
  8. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the creamy chicken pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish.
  9. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining cheddar and mozzarella cheese on top of the pasta mixture.
  10. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  11. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving warm.

Notes

  • Preheating your oven is crucial for achieving even cooking. Set your oven to the required temperature about 15-20 minutes before you’re ready to bake. This ensures that your pasta bake will cook through uniformly, avoiding any undercooked or overcooked sections.
  • To achieve the ideal al dente texture, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding your pasta. Salting the water enhances the flavor of the pasta itself, as it absorbs some of the salt during cooking. Follow the package instructions for cooking time, but check for doneness a minute or two early to prevent overcooking.
  • Proper seasoning is key to juicy chicken. Use a generous amount of Cajun seasoning to coat the chicken before cooking. This not only infuses flavor but also helps create a nice crust when seared. Cook the chicken in a hot skillet for about 6-7 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Allow it to rest before slicing to retain its juices.
  • Sautéing your vegetables, such as bell peppers and onions, enhances their flavors and brings out their natural sweetness. Cook them until they are tender and slightly caramelized, which typically takes about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth to your creamy sauce, balancing the richness of the dish.
  • For a perfectly creamy sauce, combine cream cheese, heavy cream, and your Cajun seasoning in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until smooth and well blended. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly. This helps to develop the flavors and ensures a luscious coating for the pasta.
  • When mixing ingredients, be gentle to avoid breaking the pasta. Fold the cooked pasta, chicken, sautéed vegetables, and creamy sauce together in a large mixing bowl until everything is evenly coated. This is the moment to taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
  • Transfer the combined mixture into a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a knife into the center; it should come out hot.
  • The Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake can be served in numerous delightful ways. Pair it with a crisp green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. Garlic bread or crusty baguette on the side is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. For a wine pairing, consider a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red for a complementary flavor profile.
  • If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions. The pasta bake retains its flavors well, making it a convenient and tasty option for busy weeknights.

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