Name: Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: For the Pasta Bake: 12 oz penne pasta: Cooked al dente.; 2 chicken breasts, cubed: Tender bites of protein.; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning: Add bold flavor and spice.; 2 tbsp olive oil: For sautéing the chicken.; 1 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, creamy base.; 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Adds tangy richness.; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melty topping.; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For depth of flavor.; 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh): Adds a fresh, juicy contrast.; 1/2 cup chicken broth: Helps thin the sauce.; 1 tsp garlic powder: Enhances savory notes.; 1 tsp paprika: Boosts smoky flavor.; Salt and pepper, to taste: For seasoning.; Chopped parsley: Fresh garnish

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Let me tell you, friend, this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is about to steal the show at your dinner table. Think creamy, cheesy pasta with just the right kick of Cajun spice, all cozied up with tender chicken. It’s comfort food at its finest—like a warm hug from the South. And the best part? It’s super easy to whip up, even on a busy weeknight. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be wondering why you haven’t made this sooner. Ready to dive in? Let’s do this!

Why You’ll Love Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Creamy & Spicy Harmony: This dish strikes the perfect balance between creamy richness and bold Cajun heat.
Simple & Quick: With just a few steps, you’ll have a show-stopping dish ready to impress.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for picky eaters, spice lovers, and anyone who adores pasta.
One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes, more enjoyment—what’s not to love?
Customizable: Play with the spice level, swap proteins, or even sneak in extra veggies!

Ingredients

Chicken Breasts

Juicy, tender chicken that soaks up all those Cajun flavors.

Cajun Seasoning

The heart of the dish. A blend of smoky, spicy, and savory notes that packs a punch.

Cream Cheese

Smooth, tangy, and the secret to that luscious creamy sauce.

Pasta

Your favorite pasta shape, perfectly cooked to al dente for a little bite.

Bell Peppers

A pop of color and a sweet crunch that balances the spice.

Onion

Caramelized and sweet, it deepens the dish’s flavor profile.

Garlic

Because what’s pasta without that irresistible garlicky goodness?

Heavy Cream

For that velvety, luxurious sauce that clings to every bite.

Parmesan Cheese

Nutty, salty, and the ultimate topping for a baked pasta dish.

Cheddar Cheese

Melty, gooey, and utterly irresistible—just what every pasta bake needs.

Olive Oil

A drizzle for sautéing and bringing it all together.

Instructions

Sauté the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Add diced chicken, sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, and cook until golden and juicy.

Cook the Veggies

In the same skillet, toss in your bell peppers, onion, and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.

Make the Sauce

Add cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until it melts into the veggies. Pour in the heavy cream and sprinkle in more Cajun seasoning. Stir until smooth and creamy.

Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, cook your pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Combine & Assemble

Mix the cooked pasta into the sauce, ensuring every piece is coated. Transfer to a greased baking dish, spreading evenly.

Top with Cheese

Sprinkle a generous layer of Parmesan and cheddar over the pasta.

Bake

Pop it into a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.

Serve & Enjoy

Let it cool for a few minutes, then dive into this creamy, spicy masterpiece.

How to Serve Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Pair with a Salad: A crisp Caesar salad is the perfect complement.
Add Garlic Bread: Because who doesn’t love an extra carb boost?
Vegetable Side: Serve with steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus for balance.
On Its Own: Honestly, it’s hearty and satisfying enough to stand alone.

Tips

Adjust the Spice: Prefer it milder? Use less Cajun seasoning. Feeling bold? Add extra.
Make Ahead: Assemble it ahead of time and bake just before serving.
Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to preserve creaminess.
Double It: Feeding a crowd? This recipe is easy to double. Use a larger pan and bake a bit longer.

FAQs

Q1: Can I use a different protein?
A1: Absolutely! Shrimp or sausage are excellent alternatives.

Q2: What type of pasta works best?
A2: Penne, rigatoni, or rotini are great options—they hold the sauce beautifully.

Q3: Can I freeze it?
A3: Yes! Freeze after assembling (before baking) for up to 3 months.

Q4: How can I make it healthier?
A4: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half and use low-fat cream cheese.

Q5: Is it kid-friendly?
A5: Definitely! Adjust the spice level for little ones.

Q6: Can I add more veggies?
A6: Sure! Mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach would work well.

Q7: What’s the best way to reheat?
A7: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes or in the microwave.

Q8: Can I make it gluten-free?
A8: Swap regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free brand.

Q9: What cheese works as a substitute?
A9: Gouda or mozzarella are excellent alternatives.

Q10: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A10: Yes, rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut!

Conclusion

There you have it—a comforting, flavorful, and easy-to-make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake. This dish is bound to become a favorite in your home, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend meal. Try it out, and don’t forget to share your delicious results!