Description
This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a creamy, flavorful dish that combines shredded chicken with a rich, cheesy sauce enhanced by bold Cajun seasoning. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, it features tender penne pasta baked to perfection with a crispy breadcrumb topping and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Pasta
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or cubed (rotisserie chicken works great)
- 8 oz penne pasta (or your favorite pasta)
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Topping and Garnish
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Lower the heat and add the softened cream cheese to the skillet. Stir continuously until it melts and combines with the onions and garlic. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring to create a smooth sauce. Add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses and stir until melted and incorporated.
- Season the sauce: Stir in the Cajun seasoning along with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as desired, adding more Cajun seasoning for extra heat and flavor.
- Combine chicken and pasta: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the sauce. Mix well to ensure the chicken and pasta are evenly coated with the creamy Cajun cheese sauce.
- Prepare for baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased baking dish. If using, sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top for a crunchy crust.
- Bake the pasta: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top before serving for a fresh and colorful finish.
Notes
- Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut, but any cooked chicken works well.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a nice crunchy texture.
- If you prefer a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be less rich.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
