Name: Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Cajun
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)

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Why Make This Recipe

Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a delightful dish that combines creamy flavors with a kick of spice. It’s a perfect meal for busy weekdays or a cozy family dinner. This recipe is great because it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time. Plus, everyone loves a cheesy pasta bake!

How to Make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

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)

Directions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Cook the pasta according to the package instructions, then drain and set aside.
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.
In the same skillet, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add the cream cheese to the skillet and stir until melted and combined.
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.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained pasta, mixing everything together.
Transfer the mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

How to Serve Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

This dish is best served hot right out of the oven. You can pair it with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Don’t forget a sprinkle of extra cheese on top for added flavor!

How to Store Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

To store leftovers, let the pasta bake cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. Just make sure to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Tips to Make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

You can use any pasta shape you prefer, but penne or rotini hold the sauce well.
For an extra kick, add more Cajun seasoning or some diced jalapeños.
Make sure the cream cheese is softened to blend well into the sauce.

Variation

You can easily make this dish vegetarian by replacing the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or other veggies. Simply skip the chicken step and proceed with the vegetables to create a hearty meatless option.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Just cover it and store it in the refrigerator. Bake it when you’re ready to serve.

2. Can I use low-fat cream cheese?
Yes, low-fat cream cheese works fine, but it may make the sauce slightly less rich.

3. What can I use instead of chicken broth?
Vegetable broth is a great substitute if you want a vegetarian version of the recipe.