Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs chicken tenders, breast or thighs
- 6 tbsp butter
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 10 cloves garlic
- 2 crowns broccoli, broken into small florets
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 roma tomatoes, diced
- 1 lb pasta (farfalle, penne, or any pasta of your choice)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup chicken stock or broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups shredded cheese, divided (Colby Jack, Cheddar, Pepper Jack — whichever you prefer)
- Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Olive oil
Instructions
- Prep & Sauté Veggies: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken well with Cajun seasoning and set aside for 20 minutes to remove the chill from the fridge. In a large, deep skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tbsp butter and add 1 tbsp minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the peppers, onion, and broccoli; season with salt and pepper. Cook 3–5 minutes, until browned but not soft. Remove veggies and set aside in a large bowl.
- Cook Chicken: In the same pan, heat 2 tbsp olive oil and cook chicken for 3 minutes per side. Add 1 tbsp butter and 1 spoonful of garlic to the pan, tossing chicken to coat. Transfer chicken and pan juices to the bowl with the veggies, tent with foil, and let rest 5–10 minutes before slicing. Return to the bowl.
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter. Add remaining garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in diced tomatoes and cook for 2–3 minutes, gently smashing them. Pour in heavy cream and chicken stock, season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper, and stir in Parmesan cheese. Simmer until slightly thickened. Meanwhile, cook pasta to al dente in salted water.
- Toss & Bake: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and veggies to the sauce. Stir in half the shredded cheese and mix well. Transfer to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, top with remaining cheese, and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning or paprika. Bake 15–20 minutes, until bubbly and lightly browned.
- Reheating & Serving Tips: To reheat, add a splash of chicken stock, cream, and a dollop of butter to each serving. Microwave for about 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Serve with breadsticks, Texas toast, or a crisp salad.
Notes
- Use any combination of cheeses you love for a richer, gooey topping.
- You can add mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies.
- Adjust Cajun spice levels to your preference for mild or bold flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American