Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a perfect blend of spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and tender pasta. It’s a comforting and hearty dish that brings rich flavors and the perfect amount of heat in every bite. Whether I’m making it for a family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is always a crowd-pleaser!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with Cajun spices that bring heat and depth to the dish. The combination of cream cheese, heavy cream, and two types of cheese creates a luscious, melt-in-your-mouth sauce that perfectly coats the pasta. The seasoned chicken adds a savory kick that balances out the richness of the sauce. It’s easy to make, cooks in one pan, and is baked to golden perfection, making it an ideal meal for busy nights or when I want something that feels indulgent yet satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 chicken breasts, diced

• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning

• 8 oz penne pasta

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 4 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese

• 1/4 cup green onions, chopped

Directions

1. I preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish to prepare for the pasta bake.

2. I cook the penne pasta according to the package directions, then drain it and set it aside.

3. In a large skillet, I heat the olive oil over medium heat. I add the diced chicken and Cajun seasoning, cooking the chicken until it’s browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.

4. I add the softened cream cheese and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring until a smooth sauce forms.

5. I stir in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until they melt into the sauce and everything is well combined.

6. I add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss it all together, ensuring the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce.

7. I pour the pasta mixture into the prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

8. Once it’s out of the oven, I garnish the pasta bake with chopped green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cooking Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Servings: 6 servings

• Calories: 500 kcal per serving

Variations

• Add veggies: I can stir in some sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to add extra flavor and nutrition.

• Use a different pasta: While penne works great, I can swap in rigatoni, fusilli, or even elbow macaroni if I prefer.

• Spice it up: If I love more heat, I can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or use a spicier Cajun seasoning.

• Cheese variations: I can swap out the mozzarella or Parmesan for other cheeses like gouda or cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Storage/reheating

This pasta bake stores wonderfully! I keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it up in the microwave or bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. If it seems a bit dry, I add a splash of milk or cream to keep the sauce creamy.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, I can swap the chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even ground turkey if I prefer. Just adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! I can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready, I just bake it as usual until the top is golden and bubbly.

Can I freeze this pasta bake?

Yes, I can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 3 months. I just need to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. To bake from frozen, I add an extra 10-15 minutes of cooking time.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Of course! I can use any type of cheese I like, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or gouda, for a different flavor. Mozzarella and Parmesan are just traditional choices that work wonderfully.

How do I know when the pasta bake is done?

I know it’s ready when the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbling around the edges. You can check with a fork to ensure the sauce is thick and the cheese has melted.

Conclusion

This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is an indulgent yet simple dish that brings bold flavors and creamy comfort to the table. I love how easily it comes together, and it’s always a hit with family and friends. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this pasta bake is a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and cheesy goodness that will leave everyone asking for seconds.