This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food—a rich, creamy, and cheesy pasta dish bursting with bold Cajun flavors and tender chicken. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for any special occasion. With every bite, you get a delicious combination of creamy sauce, perfectly cooked pasta, juicy chicken, and a hint of spice from Cajun seasoning. Plus, it’s easy to make and customizable to fit your taste preferences!
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
✔ 12 oz penne pasta 🍝
✔ 2 large chicken breasts, cubed 🍗
✔ 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning 🌶️
✔ 2 tablespoons olive oil 🛢️
✔ ½ teaspoon smoked paprika 🌶️ (optional for extra flavor)
✔ 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning 🌿
For the Sauce:
✔ 1 cup heavy cream 🥛
✔ 4 oz cream cheese, softened 🧀
✔ 1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese 🧀
✔ ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
✔ 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) 🍅
✔ ½ cup chicken broth 🍲
✔ 1 teaspoon garlic powder 🧄
✔ 1 teaspoon onion powder 🧅
✔ 1 teaspoon paprika 🌶️
✔ Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
✔ Chopped parsley for garnish 🌿
✔ Red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat) 🔥
Directions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta:
- Boil the penne pasta in salted water until al dente (firm to the bite). Drain and set aside.
- Drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2️⃣ Season and Cook the Chicken:
- Season the cubed chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and golden brown. Set aside.
3️⃣ Make the Creamy Sauce:
- In the same skillet, add cream cheese, heavy cream, and chicken broth.
- Stir continuously until the cream cheese melts and the mixture becomes smooth and creamy.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring frequently until it thickens slightly.
- Add diced tomatoes and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
4️⃣ Combine Everything:
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet with the sauce.
- Mix well to coat everything evenly.
- Stir in 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
5️⃣ Transfer to a Baking Dish:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
6️⃣ Bake Until Golden:
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
7️⃣ Serve & Garnish:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
- Serve and enjoy! 🍴
Tips for the Best Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake
✔ Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella melt better and give the dish a creamier texture.
✔ Cook Pasta Al Dente: It will continue cooking in the oven, so avoid overcooking it during boiling.
✔ Control the Spice: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to suit your heat tolerance.
✔ Add Extra Veggies: Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers make a delicious addition.
✔ Swap the Protein: Replace chicken with shrimp, smoked sausage, or even tofu for a different twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Packed with Bold Flavors: Spicy, creamy, and cheesy all in one dish.
✔ Simple to Prepare: With minimal prep and one-pan cooking, it’s an easy weeknight dinner.
✔ Rich and Comforting: Perfect for cozy family meals.
✔ Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to fit your preferences with different proteins or vegetables.
✔ Perfect for Leftovers: This pasta bake tastes even better the next day!
Variations to Try
🍤 Cajun Shrimp Pasta Bake: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist.
🌶️ Extra Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for more heat.
🍄 Vegetarian Version: Use sautéed mushrooms, spinach, and zucchini instead of chicken.
🧀 Four-Cheese Bake: Add provolone, cheddar, and gouda for an ultra-cheesy dish.
🍗 Smoked Sausage Cajun Pasta: Add sliced smoked sausage for a heartier meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the pasta bake, cover it, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake it when ready to serve.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.
Can I freeze it?
Yes! Freeze the pasta bake before baking. When ready to serve, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed.
What other pasta can I use?
Rigatoni, fusilli, farfalle, or any short pasta will work well.
How do I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning and chicken broth are gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is the perfect comfort food, blending bold flavors and creamy goodness in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a dinner party, or meal-prepping for the week, this dish will not disappoint. Try it today and enjoy a warm, satisfying meal that’s sure to become a household favorite! 🍗🍝🔥