If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with creamy, spicy flavors and hearty comfort, you’re going to absolutely fall in love with this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe. It’s a luscious combination of tender chicken tossed in a rich, cheesy sauce with just the right kick from Cajun seasoning, all baked to bubbly perfection. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a get-together with friends, this pasta bake delivers cozy vibes and mouthwatering satisfaction every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this dish lies in its simple yet vibrant ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color—from creamy to savory and a little bit spicy. Let’s break down what you’ll need to get started on this delicious journey.
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta: These shapes hold the sauce beautifully, ensuring every bite is creamy and indulgent.
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed: The star protein that soaks up all the Cajun flavors while staying juicy and tender.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: Adds a perfect spicy punch that defines this dish’s bold character.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For a nice sear on the chicken and to gently cook the veggies without overpowering the flavors.
- 1 small onion, diced: This brings sweetness and depth to your sauce.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: A little crunch and a pop of color to brighten everything up.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic infuses that unmistakable aromatic undertone you won’t be able to resist.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: For that velvety, rich creaminess that ties the sauce together.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Adds luscious body to the sauce, making every bite ultra-satisfying.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Balances the creaminess with a savory note and ensures the sauce isn’t too thick.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese: For sharp, melty goodness that complements the spices perfectly.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Brings a salty, nutty flavor that enhances the depth of the sauce.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Boosts the smoky, earthy flavor profile.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors into harmony.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped: The fresh, herbaceous finish that brightens up the dish just before serving.
How to Make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Cook the Pasta
First things first, get your oven warmed up to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s hot and ready for baking your delicious casserole. While the oven heats, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente—just firm enough to hold its shape. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Perfectly cooked pasta is key to a bake that isn’t mushy but beautifully tender.
Step 2: Sear the Cajun-Spiced Chicken
Next, heat up the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the cubed chicken that’s been generously coated in Cajun seasoning. Let the chicken brown nicely—it should take about 5 to 7 minutes—because that caramelization locks in juiciness and adds wonderful flavor. Once cooked through, remove the chicken and place it aside for the sauce-making step.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same skillet, use the residual flavorful oil to sauté the diced onion, red bell pepper, and garlic. Cook these for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and fragrant. This step builds a base of sweet and savory notes essential for a rich sauce that complements the Cajun bite perfectly.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce
Now the real indulgence begins. Stir in softened cream cheese and watch it melt down, transforming the pan into a luscious base. Gradually add the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly to achieve a smooth, velvety sauce. Then stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper, seasoning as you go. This blend ensures every spoonful is rich, flavorful, and irresistibly creamy.
Step 5: Combine Chicken and Pasta
Return the browned chicken to the skillet and mix it in with the sauce, coating every piece with that gorgeous creaminess. Add the drained pasta and stir until everything is perfectly combined. This step brings all the components together so that once baked, the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbly
Transfer the cheesy chicken and pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Pop it in the preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling with promise. This final baking step adds that irresistible crust and brings everything to ultimate comfort food status.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Before serving, sprinkle the finely chopped fresh parsley over the top for a vibrant, fresh contrast that elevates the entire dish. Now you’re ready to enjoy the fruits of your labor, and trust me, this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is guaranteed to wow any table.
How to Serve Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a bright herbal note that cuts through the creamy richness. For extra texture, consider sprinkling some crispy bacon bits or even a dash of smoked paprika right before serving. A little shredded cheese melted on top works wonders as well, bringing that extra gooey appeal.
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad—think mixed greens with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus or broccoli add a fresh and slightly crunchy counterpoint. For a carb-lover’s dream, garlic bread is always a delicious companion that soaks up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, serve this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe in individual ramekins straight from the oven. It’s perfect for portion control and looks so inviting with cheese bubbling at the edges. You can also sprinkle extra fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice at the table to add a zesty finish that surprises your guests in the best way.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your first meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish holds onto its creamy, spicy charm remarkably well, making for a fantastic next-day lunch or dinner.
Freezing
The Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. This makes it an excellent prep-ahead meal for busy weeks or unexpected guests.
Reheating
To reheat, either microwave individual portions or place the entire dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent drying out, removing it in the last few minutes for a lightly crispy top. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce thickened too much in the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne or rotini are perfect for holding the sauce, you can use any pasta shape you love or have on hand, such as rigatoni, fusilli, or even shells. Just adjust cooking times to keep al dente.
Is there a substitute for cream cheese?
If you want to lighten the dish, you can try using mascarpone or a softened ricotta cheese, though cream cheese gives the best creamy texture and tang. For dairy-free options, consider vegan cream cheese alternatives.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this recipe?
The Cajun seasoning provides a medium level of heat and bold flavors, but you can always adjust the amount according to your taste preferences. Adding extra paprika or a pinch of cayenne can amp up the spice if you like it hotter.
Can I prepare this dish without baking it?
You can skip the oven step and enjoy it stovetop as a creamy pasta dish, but the baking step adds a lovely golden crust and melds the flavors beautifully, so I highly recommend it if you have time.
What can I use instead of chicken broth?
If you don’t have chicken broth on hand, vegetable broth or even water with a pinch of salt and herbs can work in a pinch. Just keep in mind it may slightly alter the depth of flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is one of those comforting, crowd-pleasing dishes that feels like a warm hug in every bite. It’s creamy, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to make, perfect for those nights when you want something special without the fuss. Give it a try, invite some friends over, and watch how quickly this dish disappears from the table. You’re going to love it as much as I do!
Print
Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a rich and flavorful dish combining tender, spiced chicken with a creamy cheese sauce, sautéed vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta, all baked to golden perfection. It’s an easy, comforting meal perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 chicken breasts, cubed
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pasta dish later.
- Cook Pasta: Cook the penne or rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken that has been seasoned with Cajun seasoning. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Using the same skillet, sauté diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic for about 3–4 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Make Sauce: Stir in the softened cream cheese into the skillet until it melts. Then add heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring continuously to create a smooth and creamy sauce. Mix in shredded cheddar cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper to enhance the flavor.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce and vegetables. Add the drained pasta and stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Bake: Transfer the entire mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top if desired for extra cheesiness. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes until the dish is bubbly and has a golden brown top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh finely chopped parsley before serving for a burst of freshness and color.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it may be less creamy.
- Make sure to cook the pasta al dente as it will continue to soften in the oven.
- If you prefer, swap chicken breasts for thighs for juicier meat.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
