Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

#### Instructions for Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

**Step 1: Cook the Pasta**
Start by cooking your **pasta** according to the package instructions. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside. Be sure to reserve about ½ cup of pasta water, in case you need to thin the sauce later.

**Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables and Chicken**
While the pasta cooks, heat the **olive oil** or **butter** in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the **chopped onion**, **bell pepper**, and **minced garlic**. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Add the cooked **chicken** (shredded or cubed) to the skillet and toss it with the vegetables. Sprinkle the **Cajun seasoning**, **salt**, and **pepper** over the chicken, stirring to evenly coat the mixture with the seasoning. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

**Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce**
In a separate saucepan, combine the **cream cheese**, **heavy cream**, and **paprika**. Over low heat, stir constantly until the cream cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the **cheddar cheese** and **Parmesan cheese**, and continue stirring until the cheeses are melted and the sauce becomes thick and creamy. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Stir in the **oregano** and **parsley** (if using), and taste the sauce. Adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning to suit your preferences.

**Step 4: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce**
Add the cooked **pasta** to the skillet with the chicken and vegetables, and pour the **creamy sauce** over the mixture. Stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.

**Step 5: Bake the Pasta Dish**
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with an extra sprinkle of **cheddar cheese** and a bit of **Parmesan cheese** for a golden, cheesy crust.

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. If you prefer a crispier top, you can broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**
Once the Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with **fresh parsley** for a pop of color and freshness. Serve this comforting dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

#### Why You’ll Love Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

1. **Bold Flavor**: The Cajun seasoning adds the perfect amount of spice and depth to the creamy sauce, creating a balance that’s both savory and satisfying.
2. **Creamy Comfort**: The combination of cream cheese, heavy cream, and melted cheese makes for a rich, creamy sauce that perfectly coats the chicken and pasta.
3. **Quick and Easy**: With just a few simple steps and common pantry ingredients, this dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy nights or meal prep.
4. **Customizable**: You can adjust the level of spice by adding more or less Cajun seasoning, or even throw in extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for added flavor and texture.
5. **Family-Friendly**: The creamy texture and cheesy topping make this dish appealing to kids and adults alike, while the Cajun seasoning adds a fun twist for those who enjoy a bit of heat.

#### Tips for Making the Best Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

– **Use Rotisserie Chicken**: If you’re short on time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can make this dish even quicker to prepare.
– **Adjust the Spice Level**: If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a mild version to keep the heat level comfortable for everyone.
– **Make it a One-Pot Meal**: You can skip the baking step and serve this as a stovetop dish by simply stirring in the creamy sauce with the pasta and chicken. Just let it cook over low heat until everything is hot and well-combined.
– **Add Extra Veggies**: Consider adding vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or peas to make the dish even more nutritious and colorful.
– **Make Ahead**: This pasta bake can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven until warmed through.

#### Conclusion

**Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake** is the ultimate comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning. It’s the perfect dish to satisfy your cravings for a filling, flavorful meal that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this dish will quickly become a favorite.

Try this recipe for your next dinner and watch as it becomes a regular staple in your cooking repertoire. It’s an irresistible, creamy, and flavorful meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table!