The Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is an irresistible blend of bold Cajun flavors, creamy cheese, and hearty pasta baked to perfection. This comforting dish brings together tender, spiced chicken, fresh vegetables, and a luscious cream sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. It’s an all-in-one meal that’s perfect for sharing with family or impressing friends with minimal fuss but maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is chosen to create a perfect balance of textures, flavors, and colors. From the spicy Cajun seasoning to the creamy cheeses, every item plays an essential role in making this dish unforgettable.
- Chicken tenders, breasts, or thighs (2 lbs): Bite-sized pieces offer juicy tenderness and absorb the Cajun spice beautifully.
- Cajun seasoning: Adds that smoky, spicy kick that’s the heart of this recipe.
- Salt and black pepper: Basic seasoning to enhance all other flavors.
- Olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken until golden and flavorful.
- Butter (6 tbsp): Adds richness and depth to the cream sauce base.
- Red onion (1/2, diced): Brings a touch of sweetness and texture contrast.
- Garlic (10 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with its signature aromatic warmth.
- Broccoli crowns (2, cut into florets): Adds fresh green color and a satisfying crunch.
- Red bell pepper (1, diced): Brightens the dish with sweetness and vibrant color.
- Roma tomatoes (2, diced): Introduce a juicy, tangy balance to the creamy sauce.
- Pasta (1 lb, your choice like farfalle or penne): The perfect vehicle for soaking up that creamy Cajun goodness.
- Heavy whipping cream (2 cups): Creates silky, luxurious sauce that ties everything together.
- Chicken stock or broth (1/3 cup): Enhances savory depth without overpowering the creaminess.
- Parmesan cheese (1 cup, grated): Sharp, nutty notes that elevate the cheesy sauce.
- Shredded cheese (3 cups, divided – Colby Jack, Cheddar, Pepper Jack): A gooey, melty, flavorful cheese blend that makes every bite heavenly.
How to Make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pasta
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s ready to go when your bake is assembled. Meanwhile, cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente — this ensures it will finish cooking perfectly in the oven without getting mushy. Drain and set it aside.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
Generously season your chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked through. This step locks in the spicy flavor and creates a lovely crust that contrasts with the creamy sauce. Remove the chicken and set aside for later.
Step 3: Build the Flavor Base
Using the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, roughly 2 to 3 minutes. This foundation brings sweetness and depth that will perfectly complement the richness of the cream cheese and spice of the Cajun seasoning.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
Next, toss in the broccoli florets and red bell pepper, cooking until they just start to soften—about 5 minutes. These vegetables add a fresh crunch and vibrant color contrast that make the dish both satisfying and visually appealing. Then stir in the diced tomatoes for a burst of juicy brightness that balances the richness.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy whipping cream and chicken stock, stirring gently. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and 2 cups of your shredded cheese blend. Let the sauce simmer gently until it thickens into a velvety, cheesy dream. This step is where all the flavors meld into the signature creaminess of this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe.
Step 6: Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, mixing it through the creamy vegetable sauce. Now toss in the cooked pasta, stirring everything until it’s evenly coated and combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. This mix means every scoop gets a perfect balance of spicy chicken, creamy sauce, and tender veggies.
Step 7: Assemble and Bake
Transfer this luscious mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top so it melts into a golden, bubbly crust. Bake uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. The heat works its magic to meld the flavors and give that irresistible golden finish.
Step 8: Rest and Serve
Once out of the oven, allow the bake to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the sauce settle slightly so it’s not too runny and makes serving easier. Then dig in – the combination of creamy, spicy, cheesy goodness is worth the wait!
How to Serve Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley or basil scattered over the top adds a pop of color and a fresh herbal lift that balances the richness beautifully. A light sprinkle of extra Cajun seasoning or crushed red pepper flakes can add an extra touch of heat for spice lovers. A small drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten it up just before serving.
Side Dishes
This pasta bake is hearty on its own but pairs beautifully with simple side dishes. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or warm crusty rolls are perfect for mopping up that luscious sauce. Roasted or steamed green beans or asparagus add a tender, healthy element that complements the cheesy richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping family meal, serve portions directly from the baking dish for a cozy, communal feel. Or create individual servings in ramekins for a sophisticated presentation at dinner parties. Garnish each plate with a small sprig of fresh herbs and a light dusting of Parmesan for a restaurant-worthy touch at home.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftovers and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal even more comforting. Just keep it airtight to prevent drying out.
Freezing
This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe freezes beautifully. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, which helps preserve the creamy texture perfectly.
Reheating
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain that crispy top and creamy interior. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short bursts, stirring occasionally for even heating. Adding a splash of cream or milk can revive the sauce if it thickens too much upon reheating.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta?
Absolutely! While farfalle or penne work wonderfully, feel free to use fusilli, rigatoni, or whatever pasta shape you prefer. Just ensure it holds sauce well to get the best experience.
Is this recipe very spicy?
The spice level in the Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe can be adjusted easily by how much Cajun seasoning you add. Start with less if you’re sensitive to heat and add more to taste for a bolder kick.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the chicken for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or even plant-based chicken alternatives. Adjust the Cajun seasoning accordingly to keep that signature flavor alive.
What cheese blend works best for this bake?
A mix of Colby Jack, Cheddar, and Pepper Jack gives a creamy, melty, and slightly spicy finishing touch. But you can tailor it to your favorite cheeses or what you have on hand for new flavor combinations.
Can I prepare this in advance and bake later?
Yes! You can prepare all the components and assemble the bake in your dish, then cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s straight from the fridge.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a cozy meal that brings together bold Cajun spices with indulgent creaminess and plenty of cheesy comfort, this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is your new best friend. Easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion, it’s a dish you’ll want to return to again and again. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a cherished favorite in your recipe rotation.
Print
Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A creamy, cheesy Cajun chicken pasta bake loaded with tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and rich spices, topped with melted golden cheese for a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 lbs chicken tenders, breasts, or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- Cajun seasoning, to taste
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 10 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 crowns broccoli, cut into small florets
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 roma tomatoes, diced
Pasta and Sauce
- 1 lb pasta (farfalle, penne, or your choice)
- 2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/3 cup chicken stock or broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 cups shredded cheese, divided (Colby Jack, Cheddar, Pepper Jack, or your blend of choice)
- 6 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the pasta dish to a bubbly golden finish.
- Cook Pasta: Prepare the pasta by cooking it according to the package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside to be combined later.
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season the bite-sized chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then cook the chicken until it is browned and thoroughly cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced red onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.
- Cook Vegetables: Add the broccoli florets and diced red bell pepper to the skillet and cook them for about 5 minutes until they are slightly tender.
- Make the Cream Sauce: Stir in diced roma tomatoes, heavy whipping cream, chicken stock, grated Parmesan cheese, and 2 cups of the shredded cheese. Allow the sauce to simmer gently until it thickens and becomes creamy.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked pasta. Stir everything well to combine evenly and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Prepare for Baking: Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and evenly spread it out. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese on top.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
- Rest and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the pasta bake rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the dish to firm up slightly.
Notes
- You can substitute the chicken with turkey or firm tofu for variation.
- Use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if desired.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your preferred spice level.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream alternative.
- Vegetables can be varied; mushrooms or zucchini work well too.
- Make sure not to overcook the pasta initially as it will cook further in the oven.
