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Amazing 5-Star Cajun Butter Chicken Pasta Bake

Cajun Butter Chicken Pasta Bake
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Create a flavorful and satisfying Cajun Butter Chicken Pasta Bake. This recipe balances deep, comforting flavors with a fresh approach for an easy weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 12 ounces pasta (penne or rotini work well)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. Toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  4. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about one minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2 minutes.
  7. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
  8. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce and chicken. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.
  9. Pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  10. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.
  11. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are lightly browned.
  12. Remove from the oven, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • You can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. Shred it and add it in step 5.
  • Adjust the Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference.
  • For a brighter flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the sauce before baking.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://spoonsprout.com/cajun-butter-chicken-pasta-bake/