If you’re craving a cozy, flavorful meal that satisfies every craving, then the Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. This dish brings together tender chunks of Cajun-spiced chicken, luscious cream cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta, all baked to golden, bubbly perfection. It’s comfort food elevated with a spicy kick and creamy richness, making it an ideal meal for weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal fuss. Once you try this recipe, it’s sure to become one of your favorites too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that balance of creamy, spicy, and cheesy goodness, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor and delightful texture.
- Chicken breasts, diced: The protein base that soaks up the Cajun seasoning for a spicy, juicy punch.
- Cajun seasoning (2 tbsp): Adds the essential bold, smoky, and slightly spicy character that defines the dish.
- Penne pasta (8 oz): The perfect tubular pasta to hold onto that creamy sauce in every bite.
- Olive oil (1 tbsp): Helps brown the chicken and adds a subtle richness to the dish.
- Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Provides that velvety smoothness and tangy depth to the sauce.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Enhances the sauce’s luxurious texture, making it irresistibly creamy.
- Shredded mozzarella cheese (1/2 cup): Melts beautifully for gooey, stringy bites of cheese.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a nutty, salty kick that elevates the overall flavor.
- Green onions (1/4 cup, chopped): For a fresh, mild oniony crunch to finish the dish.
How to Make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your baking dish to ensure the pasta bake doesn’t stick and develops a lovely crust on top. This step sets the foundation for a perfect bake.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the oven warms up, cook your penne pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to cook it just until al dente since it will continue baking in the oven—this way, you avoid any mushiness. After draining, set the pasta aside; it’s time to prepare that irresistibly creamy sauce.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add your diced chicken breasts along with the Cajun seasoning. Stir and cook for 7 to 8 minutes until the chicken pieces are nicely browned and completely cooked through. This step is key for infusing the spicy Cajun flavors deep into the meat.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
With the chicken ready in the skillet, add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and creates a silky sauce, then fold in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth, thick, and utterly dreamy.
Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add your drained penne pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, making sure each piece of pasta is luxuriously coated in that creamy, cheesy Cajun sauce. This is where the magic happens, bringing the flavors and textures into perfect harmony.
Step 6: Bake
Transfer the pasta mixture into your prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Pop it into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until the top becomes a gorgeous golden brown and bubbling with cheesy goodness. This step adds that irresistible baked crust everyone loves.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe with fresh chopped green onions for a burst of color and mild oniony brightness. Serve it piping hot, and prepare for compliments flying your way!
How to Serve Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh green onions are classic, but feel free to top with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or even a dash of smoked paprika to enhance the smoky character of the Cajun spice. A few chili flakes can also add a personalized heat boost for spice lovers.
Side Dishes
This creamy, hearty pasta bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or a medley of bell peppers make excellent sides that add both color and nutrients to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small oven-safe ramekins for a delightful presentation, perfect for special dinners or casual gatherings. Alternatively, top your bake with extra shredded mozzarella or Parmesan before baking for an even cheesier crust that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This pasta bake keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When storing, ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing to maintain freshness and avoid sogginess. Leftovers taste even better as the flavors meld together overnight.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked pasta in portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. To maintain the best texture, freeze it before baking or bake it fully then freeze. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for a quick and satisfying meal anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through and bubbly. Alternatively, microwave portions covered with a damp paper towel to keep moisture intact, reheating in short bursts to prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne is ideal for holding onto the creamy sauce, you can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even rotini without losing flavor or texture.
Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?
Yes, simply reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or opt for a milder blend that suits your heat tolerance better, while still maintaining those signature flavors.
Can I prepare this dish without cream cheese?
Cream cheese adds richness and tang, but you can substitute it with a smooth ricotta or a blend of cream and extra Parmesan cheese for a different yet delicious variation.
What type of chicken works best for this recipe?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect because they cook quickly and absorb the Cajun seasoning well, but chicken thighs can also be used for a juicier, more flavorful result.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Yes! Just swap the penne pasta for a gluten-free variety and ensure your Cajun seasoning doesn’t contain any hidden gluten ingredients.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about a dish that’s both easy to make and packed with soul-soothing flavors, and the Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe delivers exactly that. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, this dish is a fantastic way to bring warmth and joy to the dinner table. So pull out your skillet and baking dish, and give this crowd-pleaser a try—you won’t regret it!
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 deliciously creamy, cheesy, and spicy casserole featuring tender diced chicken seasoned with Cajun spices, penne pasta, and a rich cream cheese sauce baked to golden perfection. Ready in 45 minutes, it’s perfect for a comforting family dinner that serves six.
Ingredients
Protein & Seasoning
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Cooking Oils & Dairy
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Pasta: Boil the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked.
- Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to low, add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream to the skillet with the chicken. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Then stir in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese until melted and evenly incorporated.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and toss gently, ensuring all pasta is coated evenly with the rich Cajun cream sauce.
- Bake: Transfer the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving hot to add a fresh bite and vibrant color.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute penne pasta with other short pasta shapes like rigatoni or fusilli.
- Make sure the cream cheese is softened for easier melting and a smoother sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adding a side salad pairs beautifully with this rich pasta bake.
