We call it 'Bayou Bliss Bake' – just the right amount of spice, and it’s gone in a flash!

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food that brings a bit of Southern flair to our Midwestern table. This dish is a warm hug on a chilly evening, reminiscent of the hearty casseroles my grandmother used to make. The Cajun spices add a lively kick, while the creamy sauce wraps everything in a cozy embrace. It's a perfect dish for family gatherings or a quiet dinner at home, evoking memories of shared meals and laughter.

This pasta bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, which balances the richness of the dish. A side of warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce, and a glass of sweet iced tea or a crisp white wine complements the flavors wonderfully.

Servings: 6

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
12 ounces penne pasta
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.

Reduce the heat to medium and add the heavy cream and chicken broth to the skillet. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, stirring to combine everything well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Transfer the mixture to a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley.

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. You can also substitute shrimp for the chicken for a seafood twist. If you're looking for a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the amount of cheese. For a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini.