Ingredients
Scale
- 12 oz (340 g) penne or your favorite pasta (cream cheese pasta)
- 2 large chicken breasts, diced (Cajun chicken)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (spicy Cajun spices)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 8 oz (226 g) cream cheese, softened (creamy cheese)
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 cup (100 g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the diced chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add minced garlic and diced bell peppers. Sauté until tender, about 3-4 minutes. Lower heat and add softened cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
- Gradually pour in milk or heavy cream, stirring constantly to form a rich sauce. Mix in shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and combined.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add to the skillet with the cheese sauce. Stir in cooked Cajun chicken and ensure even coating.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle with extra cheddar or Parmesan if desired.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly and golden. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to add more Cajun seasoning for extra spice.
- For a crispy topping, sprinkle additional cheese and broil for 2-3 minutes.
- Use pre-cooked or leftover chicken to save time.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or additional parsley for added freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Sautéing
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
- Diet: Gluten-Free (if gluten-free pasta used)
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240 g)
- Calories: 550 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 28 g
- Saturated Fat: 14 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 48 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg