Baked Creamy Cajun Chicken Mozzarella Penne Pasta

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Baked Creamy Cajun Chicken Mozzarella Penne Pasta 🧀🍗🔥

This rich, spicy, and cheesy pasta bake is pure comfort food with a kick! Tender Cajun-spiced chicken, penne smothered in a creamy tomato sauce, and topped with golden, bubbly mozzarella. Ready in 40 minutes—great for feeding a crowd!

Ingredients

For the Cajun Chicken

1 lb (450g) boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed

1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust for spice level)
1 tsp garlic powder

½ tsp salt

For the Pasta & Sauce

12 oz (340g) penne pasta (or rigatoni)
2 tbsp butter

3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced

1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
½ cup chicken broth

4 oz cream cheese, softened
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp smoked paprika

Salt & pepper to taste

For the Cheese Topping

2 cups shredded mozzarella
½ cup grated Parmesan

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Cajun Chicken

Toss chicken with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and salt.
Sear in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.

2. Cook the Pasta

Boil penne 1-2 minutes less than package instructions (it’ll finish baking). Drain and set aside.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft (~4 mins).
Stir in diced tomatoes, cream, broth, cream cheese, oregano, and paprika. Simmer 5 mins until thickened.

Season with salt & pepper, then mix in cooked pasta and chicken.

4. Assemble & Bake

Transfer to a greased 9×13″ baking dish.
Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.

Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 mins until bubbly and golden.
Broil 1-2 mins for extra crispiness (watch closely!).

5. Garnish & Serve!

Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips for Success

🌶 Spice Control: Use mild Cajun seasoning or add cayenne for extra heat.
🧀 Cheesy Twist: Mix in some pepper jack or Gouda.
🍗 Shortcut: Use rotisserie chicken and skip searing.

Serving Ideas

Garlic bread

Crispy Caesar salad
A chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon

Dig into this cheesy, spicy, creamy masterpiece! Want a lighter or dairy-free version? Just ask! 😊