Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

If you’re searching for a meal that delivers a punch of Louisiana-inspired flavor with the kind of creamy comfort only cheese and pasta can provide, look no further than this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake. With tender chicken, a rich, spicy sauce, and that irresistible bubbly cheese topping, this dish is a total weeknight (or weekend!) crowd-pleaser. The Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake isn’t just easy to throw together; it turns everyday ingredients into something downright celebratory, making it a go-to for dinners that need a little extra magic.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This ingredient list keeps things wonderfully simple, yet every piece plays a key role in making the Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake special. Each one works its magic to achieve the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory, so don’t skip a thing!

• Penne pasta (12 oz): Use pasta cooked just until al dente so it absorbs the sauce without turning mushy.
• Chicken breasts (2, cubed): Chicken provides juicy, savory bites that are perfect for soaking up all that flavor.
• Cajun seasoning (1 tbsp): The heart of this dish; gives the chicken and sauce that bold, smoky heat.
• Olive oil (2 tbsp): For sautéing the chicken, ensuring it’s tender and full of flavor.
• Heavy cream (1 cup): The base that makes the sauce incredibly rich and silky.
• Cream cheese (4 oz, softened): Brings in tangy richness and helps thicken the sauce beautifully.
• Mozzarella cheese (1 cup, shredded): Melts on top for a gooey, golden finish.
• Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup, grated): Adds big flavor and an extra salty finish to the sauce.
• Diced tomatoes (1 cup, canned or fresh): Their freshness cuts through the richness, balancing every bite.
• Chicken broth (1/2 cup): Helps thin the sauce while adding extra depth of flavor.
• Garlic powder (1 tsp): Just enough to give you that savory backbone without overpowering the other spices.
• Paprika (1 tsp): Enhances smokiness and brings a beautiful color to your sauce.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: For seasoning everything to perfection.
• Chopped parsley: A fresh garnish that finishes things off with a pop of color and brightness.

How to Make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Get things rolling by boiling your penne pasta in salted water. Aim for just-al-dente—think tender yet still with a little bite. This ensures the pasta stands up to the creamy sauce without turning overly soft once baked.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, toss your chicken cubes in Cajun seasoning until well coated. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then sauté the chicken until it’s cooked through, golden, and just a little bit crisp at the edges. Transfer the chicken out of the skillet for now—we’ll bring it back soon.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

Don’t wipe out the pan—the flavors left behind are gold! Add cream cheese, heavy cream, chicken broth, garlic powder, paprika, and Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together gently, letting the cheeses melt into a dreamy sauce. Fold in the diced tomatoes, then taste and adjust with salt and pepper as you like.

Step 4: Combine Everything

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sautéed chicken, and your made-from-scratch Cajun cheese sauce. Stir it all together and then fold in half the shredded mozzarella to distribute that cheesy goodness throughout.

Step 5: Bake the Pasta

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella over top—hello, golden bubbly goodness! Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until everything is hot and the cheese is beautifully melted and lightly browned.

Step 6: Serve

Once baked to perfection, pull your Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake from the oven and sprinkle generously with chopped parsley. Serve hot and prepare for cheers around the table!

How to Serve Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Garnishes

A shower of freshly chopped parsley brightens up the richness. For a little extra flair, toss on finely sliced green onions or, if you love heat, a dash of crushed red pepper right before serving.

Side Dishes

Pair your Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake with garlic bread to mop up all that velvety sauce. A simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette also balances the hearty flavors, while roasted asparagus or green beans offer crunchy freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Show off your pasta bake at potlucks by portioning it into individual ramekins before baking. Hosting a dinner? Serve it family-style in a cast iron skillet for rustic charm, or shape into pasta muffin cups for a fun party twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer your Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake into an airtight container. It’ll keep perfectly in the refrigerator for up to four days, making it a fabulous grab-and-go lunch option.

Freezing

Want to prep ahead? Assemble the unbaked pasta bake, cover tightly with foil, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking, adding an extra 10 minutes to the bake time if needed.

Reheating

Warm individual portions in the microwave, or reheat a whole pan covered with foil in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until hot and bubbly. If the pasta looks a tad dry, splash in a tablespoon of chicken broth or cream to revive that creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Shred or cube store-bought rotisserie chicken and stir it in with the pasta and sauce for a speedy shortcut. Just scale back a bit on added salt, since rotisserie chicken is already seasoned.

Can I make this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake gluten free?

Yes, simply swap the penne for your favorite gluten-free pasta brand and double-check that your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free as well. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free and doesn’t require any flour.

Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Definitely! Mozzarella melts beautifully, but Monterey Jack or pepper jack are delicious for a little extra kick, and cheddar brings a sharper, tangier note. Experiment to find your favorite combo.

How spicy is the final dish?

It’s got a good Cajun warmth without being overwhelming, thanks to the cheese and cream. If you prefer things mild, use less Cajun seasoning or pick a brand labeled “mild.” For extra heat, toss in a pinch of cayenne.

What’s the best way to double this recipe for a crowd?

The Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake scales up effortlessly—just double all the ingredients and bake in two pans, or use one extra-large dish. Keep an eye on baking time; larger pans might need more time for the center to get fully bubbly.

Final Thoughts

This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake isn’t just dinner—it’s the kind of comfort food that brings people together around the table. Every time you serve it up, expect requests for seconds (and maybe even the recipe). So grab your skillet and make some magic tonight!

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