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–+ servings

Creamy Cajun Chicken Bake

Creamy Cajun Chicken & Broccoli Pasta Bake: A one-pan meal with bold spices, creamy cheese, and tender broccoli. Perfect for weeknights and gatherings.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 500
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 pound pasta (penne or rotini work well)
  • 1 large broccoli head, chopped into florets
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Equipment

  • Large pot for pasta
  • Large skillet
  • Whisk
  • Baking dish
  • Mixing bowl

Method
 

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat, add chicken, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
  4. Season the chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
  5. Add chopped broccoli and canned tomatoes to the skillet and let simmer for about 5 minutes until the broccoli is just tender.
  6. In a small bowl, whisk together heavy cream and chicken broth, then pour into the skillet and stir to coat.
  7. Combine the cooked pasta with the chicken, broccoli, and creamy sauce in the skillet.
  8. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with cheddar, Monterey Jack, and Parmesan cheeses, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  9. Let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 500kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish is a winner for so many reasons. First, the combination of bold Cajun spices and creamy cheese is absolutely delicious. Secondly, it’s a one-pan meal, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy the company of your family and friends. And finally, it’s versatile enough to suit different tastes and dietary needs, making it a perfect go-to recipe for any occasion.
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