A comforting casserole loaded with creamy chicken, spicy Cajun sausage, gooey cheese, and tender pasta.
Prep Time15 minutesmins
Cook Time30 minutesmins
Total Time45 minutesmins
Course: Main
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Casserole, Comfort Food
Servings: 6servings
Equipment
Large Skillet
Casserole Dish
Pot
Ingredients
Ingredients
2tablespoonsOlive Oil
1poundBoneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts, Diced
12ozSmoked Cajun Sausage, Sliced
1tablespoonCajun Seasoning
1mediumYellow Onion, Chopped
1mediumRed Bell Pepper, Chopped
3clovesGarlic, Minced
10ozPenne Pasta
2cupsChicken Broth
1.5cupsHeavy Cream
1canDiced Tomatoes with Green Chilies(10 oz)
1cupShredded Mozzarella Cheese
1cupShredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
to tasteSalt and Pepper
for garnishFresh Parsley, Chopped
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large casserole or baking dish.
Cook the penne pasta just shy of al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with half of the Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 4-5 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add sausage slices and cook for 2-3 minutes until lightly browned. Remove sausage and set aside with chicken.
Reduce heat to medium. Add chopped onion and red bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, remaining Cajun seasoning, and diced tomatoes with green chilies. Stir to combine and bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and sausage back into the skillet. Toss to combine everything evenly and taste for seasoning, adding salt and pepper as needed.
Transfer the mixture to your prepared casserole dish. Top generously with shredded mozzarella and cheddar cheese.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and casserole is bubbling. For a golden cheese crust, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
Remove from oven, let rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh parsley. Serve warm.
Notes
For the creamiest sauce, shred your mozzarella and cheddar cheese fresh from the block. You can customize the recipe with your favorite ingredients.