Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Why This Recipe Works

This bake mixes spicy Cajun chicken with a smooth cream cheese sauce and cheese. The pasta holds the sauce well. Baking gives a golden top and warm, bubbly texture. The recipe balances spice, cream, and cheese for a cozy meal.

This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is easy and tasty. You cook pasta, make a creamy Cajun sauce with cream cheese, add cooked chicken, then bake until bubbly. It feeds a family and makes good leftovers. If you want a sweet treat after dinner, try the churro cheesecake recipe for dessert.

Why you should try this recipe

You should try it because it is:

• Simple to make with common ingredients.
• Comforting and full of flavor.
• Good for weeknights or for guests.
• Easy to change for what you have on hand.

How to make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

This section shows the main steps from start to finish. You brown the seasoned chicken, cook veggies, make the cream cheese sauce, mix with pasta, and bake until golden.

Ingredients :

• 12 oz penne or rotini pasta
• 2 chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)

Equipments Needed

• Large pot for pasta
• Large skillet
• 9×13-inch baking dish (greased)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Step-by-Step Instructions :

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and Cajun seasoning, cooking until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
5. Add the cream cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and combined.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to create a smooth sauce. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue to cook, stirring until the sauce is creamy and the cheese is melted.
7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained pasta, mixing everything together.
8. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
9. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

How to serve Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Serve hot from the oven. A green salad or steamed vegetables pair well. For a snack or side, warm small rolls or try a simple bread like the Brazilian cheese bread recipe. Sprinkle extra parsley or a little paprika on top before serving.

How to store Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Cool the bake to room temperature before storing. Cover and refrigerate for up to 3–4 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Tips & Tricks

• Do not overcook the pasta; cook it al dente so it holds up during baking.
• Use room-temperature cream cheese so it melts easily.
• Taste the sauce and adjust salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning before baking.
• If the sauce seems thin, stir in a little extra cheese or simmer briefly to thicken.
• For inspiration on richer desserts after a spicy meal, you can look at this caramel brownie cheesecake recipe.

Variations & Substitutions

• Swap penne for rotini, rigatoni, or shells.
• Use turkey or sausage instead of chicken.
• For less heat, use half the Cajun seasoning and add more later if you want more spice.
• Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
• Add cooked spinach or mushrooms for more vegetables.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
A: Yes. Assemble and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, then bake when ready. Increase bake time slightly if baking cold.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes. Add shredded or cubed cooked chicken when you mix the pasta with the sauce. Heat through before transferring to the baking dish.

Q: Is this dish freezer friendly?
A: Yes. Freeze in a covered container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Conclusion

For a one-pot variation and step-by-step photos, see One Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta – Budget Bytes. If you want another baked take on Cajun pasta, check Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake (30 Minutes!) – Chef Savvy.

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