When I think of comfort food, my mind immediately drifts to a creamy, cheesy pasta bake that warms the soul. This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake is not just a dish; it’s a delightful memory of family gatherings and cozy weeknights spent in the kitchen. I remember the first time I made it for my friends during a chilly autumn evening. The aroma of spices filled the air, and as we gathered around the table, laughter and stories flowed just as freely as the creamy sauce. This dish has since become a staple in my home, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
What Makes This Recipe Special
- Flavor Explosion: The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick that elevates the dish from ordinary to extraordinary.
- Comforting Creaminess: The rich, creamy sauce envelops the pasta and chicken, making every bite a warm hug.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it comes together quickly and can be made ahead of time.
- Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences.
Gather Your Ingredients
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6
- 2 cups penne pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Let’s Get Cooking
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, diced tomatoes, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Helpful Hints & Variations
If you want to add some veggies, consider tossing in some spinach or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or some sliced jalapeños. This dish also works wonderfully with shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist!
Perfect Pairings
This creamy pasta bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea complements the flavors perfectly. And for dessert? A slice of rich chocolate cake will round off your meal beautifully!
Kitchen Q&A
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can prepare the pasta bake, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Why I Love This Recipe
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake is more than just a meal; it’s a reminder of the joy of cooking and sharing food with loved ones. It brings warmth to my kitchen and fills my home with laughter and love. I hope it becomes a cherished recipe in your home as well!
Your Turn
I invite you to try this recipe and make it your own! Feel free to tweak the ingredients, share your variations, and let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking!
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake Will Be Your New Weeknight Obsession
Ingredients
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb diced chicken breast
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese, divided
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the heavy cream, diced tomatoes, and half of the cheddar cheese. Mix well until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
- Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and mix until the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with the remaining cheddar cheese and chopped green onions.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
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