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Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake – Spicy, Cheesy & Comforting

Turn up the flavor with this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake! Juicy chicken, tender pasta, and bold Cajun seasoning are baked together in a rich, creamy cheese sauce for the ultimate comfort food. Easy to prepare and perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a crowd, this pasta bake is spicy, cheesy, and irresistibly satisfying. Serve with garlic bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal everyone will love!
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine American, Cajun, Southern-Inspired
Servings 6
Calories 510 kcal

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Skillet (for cooking chicken & sauce)
  • Cutting board & sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Whisk
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Oven

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz (340 g) penne or rigatoni pasta
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast, diced
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240 ml) chicken broth
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 ½ cups (150 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup (100 g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt & black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley or green onions, for garnish

Instructions
 

Cook the Pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until al dente, drain, and set aside.

Season & Cook Chicken:

  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss diced chicken with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Veggies:

  • In the same skillet, add peppers, onion, and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant.

Make the Sauce:

  • Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, and cream cheese. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Add remaining Cajun seasoning.

Combine:

  • Add cooked chicken and pasta into the sauce. Toss until well coated. Season with salt and pepper if needed.

Assemble the Bake:

  • Transfer mixture into a greased 9x13 baking dish. Sprinkle with cheddar and mozzarella cheese.

Bake:

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, until bubbly and golden on top.

Serve:

  • Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions and enjoy hot!

Notes

  • Make Ahead: Assemble up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
  • Protein Variations: Swap chicken for shrimp, turkey, or sausage.
  • Cheese Options: Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a mix of cheddar and gouda.
  • Spice Level: Adjust Cajun seasoning or add hot sauce for extra heat.
  • Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3–4 days, or freeze up to 2 months.
Keyword Cajun chicken pasta bake, cheesy chicken pasta, creamy pasta casserole, family dinner,, weeknight comfort food