Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
If you crave big flavor and seriously creamy comfort, you’re going to fall head-over-heels for this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake. Think golden-baked pasta mingling with juicy chicken, sweet peppers, a velvety sauce, and a Cajun kick—it’s the kind of meal that steals the show at family dinners and turns weekdays into a celebration. Easy enough for busy nights and guaranteed to wow the crowd, this pasta bake is a must-try for anyone who loves bold, cheesy cuisine Main Course.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things simple, using everyday ingredients that work magic together. Each item isn’t just for flavor—they all play a role in building the irresistible creaminess, color, and depth this dish is famous for.
- Penne or rigatoni pasta: These shapes catch every drop of the rich, creamy sauce and create a hearty base.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast: Tender bites of protein soak up the Cajun spice and turn each forkful into something special.
- Olive oil: Adds a subtle, healthy richness and helps brown the chicken for extra flavor.
- Cajun seasoning: This is where the magic happens—spicy, smoky, and bold, it gives the entire dish personality!
- Garlic powder: Boosts savory notes and pulls the flavors together in the most delicious way.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasoning to balance the heat and brighten the other ingredients.
- Red bell pepper: Adds a pop of sweetness and vibrant color for a true feast for the eyes (and taste buds).
- Yellow onion: Gives mellow sweetness and complexity to your sauce foundation.
- Fresh garlic: Every cheesy bake needs a punch of fresh garlic—it’s an instant upgrade for flavor.
- Cream cheese: The secret weapon! It melts into the sauce, making everything velvety and lush.
- Heavy cream: For the decadent, silky texture that truly sets this pasta apart.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth and helps thin the sauce just enough to coat the pasta perfectly.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melted on top and inside, it’s our guarantee for maximum gooeyness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, nutty richness and serious “yum” appeal to the creamy sauce.
- Chopped parsley (optional): Adds a fresh finish and a pretty pop of green for serving.
How to Make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your penne or rigatoni in a big pot of salted water until it’s just al dente. Drain and set it aside. Cooking the pasta to just-firm keeps it from getting mushy as it bakes in the sauce later—trust me, texture makes all the difference!
Step 2: Brown the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your diced chicken along with the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until the chicken is golden on the outside and just cooked through. This step packs every piece with savory, spicy flavor and seals in the juiciness.
Step 3: Sauté the Veggies
Add your red bell pepper, onion, and fresh minced garlic right into the skillet. Sauté for another 3–4 minutes, until the veggies are softened and fragrant. Cooking them with the seasoned chicken lets them soak up all those spicy juices, building layers of flavor that shine through in every bite of this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Turn down the heat and stir in the cream cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Keep stirring until the mixture is smooth and luscious, then add half of the mozzarella and all the Parmesan. Watch as it melts into a dreamy cheese sauce—don’t be surprised if you want to sneak a taste right away!
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss your cooked pasta into the skillet and gently mix until every noodle is coated with that irresistible sauce. This is where it all comes together—the spicy, creamy, cheesy goodness in one beautiful mixture that’s ready for baking magic.
Step 6: Assemble and Bake
Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella on top for a glorious cheesy crust. Slide it into a 375°F oven and bake for about 20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and the top is golden and irresistible.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Let the bake rest for a couple of minutes before scooping. Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a burst of color and a hint of brightness (if you like). Dive in while it’s hot, creamy, and melty!
How to Serve Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake
Garnishes
This dish shines on its own, but a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or a dash of extra Cajun seasoning livens up the top. For extra zing, try a few chopped green onions or sliced jalapeños for those who love heat.
Side Dishes
The rich, bold flavors of Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake pair incredibly well with a crisp green salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette. A side of warm, crusty bread or garlic toast is perfect for scooping up every last bit of sauce—don’t let that creamy goodness go to waste!
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress, serve the pasta bake in individual ramekins for a dinner party, or sprinkle on a little smoked paprika before baking for extra color. You could even top with crushed toasted breadcrumbs for a crunchy finish if you’re looking to add texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Got leftovers? Lucky you! Transfer any remaining Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake into an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days—perfect for easy lunches or quick dinners.
Freezing
This pasta bake freezes like a dream. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in freezer-safe containers or foil. You can freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
For best results, reheat gently in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, until warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, individual servings can be microwaved. Add a splash of broth or cream before reheating to keep everything creamy and luscious.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie or leftover chicken?
Absolutely! Just dice or shred your rotisserie or cooked chicken and stir it in with the veggies. The bake will be equally delicious, and you’ll shave off a few prep minutes as well.
How spicy is this recipe, and can I adjust the heat?
The Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake has a gentle kick, but you’re in control—add more or less Cajun seasoning to suit your taste, or swap in a mild blend for less heat. You can even toss in extra hot sauce or cayenne if you love things fiery!
What’s the best pasta for this bake?
Penne and rigatoni are top choices because their shape holds up well and captures the sauce beautifully. In a pinch, ziti, rotini, or fusilli also work fantastically!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble everything up to the baking step, cover well, and chill in the fridge. When you’re ready, just bake as directed (you may need a few extra minutes if starting cold).
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
You can swap the chicken for sautéed mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, or even canned white beans for a hearty vegetarian Cajun Cream Cheese Pasta Bake. Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for the sauce.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing dinner with soul, spice, and a creamy, cheesy twist, this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake truly delivers. I hope you gather your friends or family, dig in, and make some delicious memories around the table. Give it a try—you’ll be hooked from the first cheesy, spirited bite!
Print
Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a flavorful and creamy dish that combines tender chicken with Cajun spices, bell peppers, onions, and a rich cream cheese sauce, all baked to perfection with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Pasta:
- 12 oz penne or rigatoni pasta
Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Veggies:
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Creamy Sauce:
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
Cheese and Garnish:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook Pasta: Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente; drain and set aside.
- Sauté Chicken: In a skillet, cook chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until browned and cooked through.
- Add Veggies: Add bell pepper, onion, and garlic; sauté until softened.
- Make Creamy Sauce: Lower heat, stir in cream cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth until smooth. Mix in half of the mozzarella and all of the Parmesan cheese.
- Combine and Bake: Add cooked pasta to the sauce, toss to coat, transfer to baking dish, sprinkle with remaining mozzarella, and bake for 20 minutes.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with parsley before serving if desired.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste for more or less heat.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream and use reduced-fat cream cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 ½ cups
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
