Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo Bake with Garlic Butter Crumbs

Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo Bake with Garlic Butter Crumbs
Spicy Southern-Inspired Chicken Alfredo Casserole

Ingredients:

For the Pasta Bake:

• 12 oz penne pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup milk
• 1½ cups grated Parmesan cheese
• 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

For the Garlic Butter Crumbs:

• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 3 tbsp butter, melted
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp dried parsley

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13” baking dish.
2. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through (6–8 minutes). Remove the chicken and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté the garlic for 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, and bring to a gentle simmer.
5. Stir in the Parmesan and 1 cup of mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
6. Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce, stirring until everything is well coated. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
7. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of mozzarella on top.
8. In a small bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, melted butter, garlic powder, and dried parsley. Evenly sprinkle this mixture over the casserole.
9. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Calories: 620 kcal per serving | Servings: 6