Save A vibrant comforting casserole featuring tender chicken spicy Cajun seasonings creamy sauce and melty cheese all baked with pasta for a crowd-pleasing meal.
I remember the first time I made this for my friends – the kitchen was filled with the aroma of roasting peppers and bubbling cheese. Everyone went back for seconds and it became an instant family favorite.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: 2 large cut into bite-sized pieces
- Red bell pepper: 1 diced
- Yellow bell pepper: 1 diced
- Red onion: 1 small diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or rigatoni
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Butter: 1 tbsp
- Heavy cream: 200 ml (3/4 cup)
- Milk: 120 ml (1/2 cup)
- Mozzarella cheese: 100 g (1 cup) shredded
- Parmesan cheese: 50 g (1/2 cup) grated
- Cheddar cheese: 100 g (1 cup) shredded
- Cajun seasoning: 1 1/2 tbsp plus extra for garnish
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Chili flakes: 1/4 tsp optional for extra heat
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped for garnish
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Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water 2 minutes less than package instructions Drain and set aside
- Cook Chicken:
- In a large skillet heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat Add chicken 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning salt and pepper Sauté until browned and cooked through about 6–8 minutes Remove chicken and set aside
- Cook Vegetables:
- In the same skillet add onions and bell peppers Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened Add garlic smoked paprika and chili flakes (if using) and sauté for 1 minute
- Make Sauce:
- Reduce heat to medium Pour in cream and milk stirring to scrape up any browned bits Simmer for 2–3 minutes
- Add Cheese:
- Add 3/4 of the mozzarella cheddar and Parmesan to the sauce Stir until melted and smooth
- Combine:
- Return the chicken to the skillet then add the cooked pasta Toss everything together to coat well Adjust seasoning as needed
- Transfer & Top:
- Transfer mixture to a lightly greased baking dish Sprinkle remaining cheeses over the top
- Bake:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly
- Garnish:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and a pinch of Cajun seasoning before serving
Save This dish is a favorite at our family get-togethers – everyone gathers at the table as the cheesy pasta bake comes bubbling out of the oven and it never lasts long
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot straight from the oven with a simple side salad crusty bread or a glass of iced tea or white wine
Variations
Try swapping chicken for turkey or adding sautéed mushrooms spinach or even broccoli for extra veggie power
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat easily in the oven or microwave until piping hot
Save This delicious Cajun chicken pasta bake is the perfect comfort food for any night of the week ready to gather everyone around your table
Kitchen Guide
- → What type of cheese is best for this dish?
Mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses blend well, providing creamy, melty texture and rich flavor.
- → Can I use a different pasta shape?
Penne or rigatoni work best as they hold sauce well, but any medium pasta shape can be used.
- → How spicy is the dish?
The Cajun seasoning adds moderate heat, balancing smoky paprika and optional chili flakes for extra kick.
- → Can I prepare the dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the mixture and refrigerate before baking. Bake fresh before serving for best results.
- → What sides pair well with this casserole?
Light salads, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables complement the rich, hearty flavors nicely.
