Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 oz (340g) penne or bowtie pasta
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water 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 pieces, season with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, then cook until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet, along with the heavy cream. Stir continuously to create a smooth, creamy sauce. Mix in the remaining Cajun seasoning and simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, cooked chicken, and the cream sauce. Mix well to coat everything evenly. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, then sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Notes
- Let the baked dish cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat leftovers in a microwave in 30-second intervals or warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Reheat only once to preserve quality.
- For added flavor, sprinkle with sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or hot sauce before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking, Sauteing
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
- Diet: Gluten Free Option Available
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 550 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 1100mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 115mg