# Components:
→ Meats
01 - 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 red bell pepper, diced
03 - 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
04 - 1 small red onion, diced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
→ Pasta
06 - 10 ounces penne or rigatoni pasta
→ Sauces & Dairy
07 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
08 - 1 tablespoon butter
09 - ¾ cup heavy cream
10 - ½ cup milk
11 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
12 - ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
13 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
→ Spices & Seasonings
14 - 1½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning, plus extra for garnish
15 - ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
16 - ½ teaspoon salt
17 - ¼ teaspoon black pepper
18 - ¼ teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
→ Garnish
19 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
# Method:
01 - Set the oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking.
02 - Boil pasta in salted water, cooking 2 minutes less than package instructions. Drain and set aside to finish cooking in the oven.
03 - Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté until golden and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
04 - In the same skillet, cook onions and bell peppers until softened, about 4 to 5 minutes. Add garlic, smoked paprika, and chili flakes if using, sautéing for an additional minute.
05 - Reduce heat to medium, then stir in heavy cream and milk, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
06 - Incorporate three-quarters of the mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses into the sauce. Stir until the mixture is smooth and melted.
07 - Return the chicken to the skillet, add the cooked pasta, and toss thoroughly to coat everything evenly. Adjust seasoning with additional Cajun spice, salt, or pepper to taste.
08 - Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheeses uniformly over the top.
09 - Bake uncovered for 18 to 20 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden and bubbly.
10 - Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of Cajun seasoning before serving.
