Get ready for a delicious and comforting meal that’s perfect for any night of the week! This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is creamy, flavorful, and oh-so-satisfying.
### Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 8 oz cream cheese
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 tbsp cajun seasoning
– 8 oz penne pasta
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
### Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F and lightly grease a baking dish.
2. Cook the chicken breasts in a skillet until fully cooked. Cut into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add cream cheese, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and cajun seasoning. Cook until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is well combined.
4. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions and drain.
5. Combine the cooked pasta, chicken, and cream cheese sauce in the prepared baking dish. Top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
### Nutrition Information:
– Calories: 350
– Fat: 15g
– Carbohydrates: 25g
– Protein: 25g
### Popular questions:
1. **Can I use a different type of pasta?**
– Yes, you can use any type of pasta you prefer for this recipe.
2. **Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?**
– Absolutely, feel free to use chicken thighs if you prefer.
3. **What can I substitute for cajun seasoning?**
– You can make your own cajun seasoning blend using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme.
4. **Can I add vegetables to this dish?**
– Yes, feel free to add bell peppers, onions, or any other vegetables you like.
5. **Can I make this dish ahead of time?**
– Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and bake it when ready to eat.
6. **Can I freeze leftovers?**
– Yes, you can freeze leftovers for future meals.
7. **How can I make this dish spicier?**
– Increase the amount of cajun seasoning or add some red pepper flakes for extra heat.
8. **Can I use dairy-free cream cheese for this recipe?**
– Yes, you can use dairy-free cream cheese as a substitute.
9. **Is it necessary to use chicken broth?**
– Chicken broth adds flavor, but you can use water as a substitute if needed.
10. **Can I use a different type of cheese?**
– Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese to suit your taste preferences.
### Helpful tips:
1. Add some cooked bacon for extra flavor.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
3. Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad.
4. Make it extra creamy by adding a splash of heavy cream.
5. Customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of cajun seasoning.
6. For a crispy top, broil the dish for a few minutes after baking.
7. Make it a complete meal by adding some steamed broccoli or spinach.
8. Use a rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
9. Experiment with different types of pasta shapes for variety.
10. Feel free to add some grated Parmesan cheese for an additional layer of flavor.
### Expert Secrets:
1. Let the cream cheese come to room temperature before adding it to the skillet for easier melting.
2. Season the chicken well before cooking for maximum flavor.
3. Use quality cajun seasoning for the best taste.
4. Reserve some pasta water to adjust the consistency of the sauce if needed.
5. Stir the pasta and sauce together gently to ensure all the flavors are evenly distributed.
6. Don’t overcook the pasta before baking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
7. Mix in some chopped green onions for a fresh kick.
8. Add a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra layer of smokiness.
9. Serve with a squeeze of lemon for a hint of brightness.
10. Experiment with adding different herbs like basil or thyme for a unique twist.