Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

I remember one of those weeks where every day felt like a Monday. Between work deadlines and family commitments, the thought of cooking a complicated dinner was completely overwhelming. I craved something comforting, but also exciting—a dish that could break the monotony.

Rummaging through my fridge, I spotted a block of cream cheese, some chicken breasts, and a jar of my favorite Cajun seasoning. That’s when the lightbulb went off. Why not combine the creamy comfort of a pasta bake with the zesty, bold flavors of Louisiana?

The result was this incredible Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake, a dish that has since become a weeknight legend in my home. It’s the perfect blend of spicy, creamy, and cheesy, all baked into one glorious casserole. This easy Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is more than just a recipe; it’s my go-to solution for turning a hectic day into a delicious evening.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a culinary experience that brings a little excitement to your dinner table. You will absolutely fall in love with this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake for so many reasons. First, the flavor is simply out of this world.

The spicy kick from the Cajun seasoning is perfectly balanced by the rich, tangy cream cheese and melted mozzarella, creating a sauce that is both bold and comforting. It’s a fantastic recipe for anyone who enjoys a bit of spice without being overwhelmed.

Furthermore, this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is incredibly easy to assemble. It’s the perfect recipe for a busy weeknight when you need something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen. You can even prepare parts of it ahead of time to make dinner even faster.

It’s a true one-pan wonder that minimizes cleanup, which is always a bonus. Finally, this creamy Cajun chicken pasta bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s hearty enough to satisfy big appetites and is a dish that both kids and adults will request again and again. Making this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake will surely make you a dinner hero.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (use more or less to your taste)
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, softened and cubed
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 16 oz (450g) penne pasta, or other short pasta
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
• 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Substitutions & Variations

One of the best things about this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is how easily you can adapt it to your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Protein: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, try using andouille sausage for a more authentic Louisiana flavor. Shrimp also works wonderfully; just add it in the last few minutes of cooking the sauce so it doesn’t overcook. For a vegetarian option, you can substitute the chicken with mushrooms, zucchini, and extra bell peppers.
• Pasta: While penne is a classic choice, feel free to use any short pasta you like. Rotini, fusilli, or rigatoni are all excellent options as their shapes are perfect for holding onto that delicious, creamy sauce.
• Cheese: Don’t have mozzarella? A Monterey Jack, Colby, or a spicy pepper jack cheese would add a fantastic melt and flavor to this spicy chicken pasta bake. A sharp cheddar can also provide a nice, tangy contrast.
• Veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables to this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake. Sliced mushrooms, corn, or even some wilted spinach stirred into the sauce at the end would be delicious and add extra nutrients.
• Spice Level: You are in complete control of the heat. For a milder dish, use less Cajun seasoning and make sure you choose a brand without too much cayenne. To amp up the spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the cream sauce. This flexible Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is easy to customize.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create the most amazing Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake you’ve ever tasted.

1. Prepare the Pasta and Oven: First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. It’s important to slightly undercook it, as it will continue to cook in the oven. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cook the Chicken and Veggies: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the chicken cubes with 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until it’s browned on all sides and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until they become soft and fragrant. Next, add the minced garlic and the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, and cook for another minute until the garlic is aromatic.
4. Create the Creamy Cajun Sauce: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the cubed cream cheese and heavy cream. Whisk continuously until the cream cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This is the heart of your Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake.
5. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained pasta, 1 cup of the shredded mozzarella, and the Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the pasta and chicken are fully coated in that luscious sauce. This step brings the whole Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake together.
6. Bake to Perfection: If your skillet is not oven-safe, transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
7. Garnish and Serve: Finally, remove your beautiful Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before garnishing with fresh parsley. Serve it hot and enjoy every bite of this spicy, creamy delight.

Pro Tips for Success

To make sure your Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is absolutely perfect every single time, keep these simple tips in mind.

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: This is crucial! Cook your pasta about 1-2 minutes less than the package directs. It will absorb some of the sauce and finish cooking in the oven. This prevents a mushy final result and ensures the perfect texture for your pasta bake.
• Use Freshly Shredded Cheese: While pre-shredded cheese is convenient, it often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent it from melting smoothly. For the creamiest, gooiest Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake, I always recommend buying a block of cheese and shredding it yourself.
• Soften the Cream Cheese: Letting your cream cheese come to room temperature before adding it to the sauce will help it melt seamlessly, preventing any lumps. If you’re short on time, you can microwave it in short bursts until it softens.
• Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Cajun seasoning blends can vary greatly in salt and spice levels. Be sure to taste your sauce before adding the pasta and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or a little extra Cajun kick to perfect your Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake.
• Let it Rest: I know it’s tempting to dig right in, but letting the Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake rest for about 5-10 minutes after it comes out of the oven allows the sauce to set up a bit. This makes it easier to serve and ensures every portion is perfectly saucy.

Storage & Reheating Tips

This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is fantastic for leftovers, if you have any! To store, let the pasta cool completely and then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

For reheating, you have a couple of options. You can microwave individual portions for a quick and easy meal. Just be sure to cover the dish to trap steam and prevent it from drying out.

For best results, I recommend reheating the Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake in the oven. Place it in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until heated through. You can add a splash of milk or chicken broth before reheating to help restore its creamy consistency.

What to Serve With This Recipe

While this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a complete meal on its own, a few simple side dishes can elevate it even further. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pasta.

Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans are also excellent choices. And of course, you can never go wrong with a side of warm, crusty garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of that delicious creamy Cajun sauce.

FAQs

Can I make this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake (without the final cheese topping) up to a day in advance. Just cover it tightly and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, sprinkle the remaining cheese on top and bake as directed, adding about 10-15 minutes to the baking time since it will be cold.

Is this recipe very spicy?

The spice level of this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake depends entirely on the Cajun seasoning you use and how much you add. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with less seasoning and choose a brand that isn’t heavy on cayenne pepper. You can always add more heat at the end with a dash of hot sauce if you like.

What kind of Cajun seasoning is best?

Any store-bought Cajun or Creole seasoning blend will work well. Brands like Slap Ya Mama, Tony Chachere’s, or Zatarain’s are popular choices. You can also make your own blend at home using paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme. This allows you to control the salt and heat levels perfectly for your Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake.

Can I use leftover cooked chicken?

Yes, using leftover rotisserie or grilled chicken is a fantastic shortcut for this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake. Simply shred or dice the cooked chicken and add it to the sauce along with the pasta to heat through. This makes an already easy recipe even quicker!

Why is my cream cheese sauce lumpy?

Lumps in the sauce usually happen if the cream cheese is too cold when you add it to the pan. To ensure a silky-smooth sauce for your Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake, make sure the cream cheese is softened to room temperature. Also, whisk it into the liquid ingredients over low heat to help it melt evenly.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

Disclaimer: The nutritional information provided is an estimate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used.

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	680 kcal
Protein	42g
Fat	35g
Saturated Fat	18g
Carbohydrates	48g
Fiber	4g
Sugar	6g
Sodium	1150mg

Print