Easy Chicken Cheesy Pasta (Printable Version)
Tender chicken and cheesy pasta combined with Cajun spices for a warm, satisfying dinner.
# Everything You’ll Need:
→ Protein
01 -
3 to 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1.5 lbs)
→ Pasta
02 -
8 oz penne or rotini pasta
→ Dairy
03 -
8 oz full-fat cream cheese
04 -
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
→ Seasoning and Flavorings
05 -
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
06 -
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
07 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Liquids
08 -
2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
09 -
2 tbsp olive oil
# Steps to Cook:
01 -
Preheat oven to 375°F and grease a baking dish with nonstick spray.
02 -
Boil pasta in salted water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
03 -
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning, then cook until golden brown on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side.
04 -
Reduce heat to low, add cream cheese, chicken broth, and additional Cajun seasoning to skillet. Stir until sauce is smooth, then incorporate grated Parmesan cheese.
05 -
Slice cooked chicken into bite-size pieces and fold into sauce along with the cooked pasta until evenly coated.
06 -
Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
# Extra Suggestions:
01 -
For best results, avoid overcooking the pasta before baking to maintain optimal texture.