Quick Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake – Easy Weeknight Dinner Recipe
This Quick Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate comfort food with a spicy twist. Tender chicken and pasta are tossed in a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce made with cream cheese, then baked with gooey melted cheese until golden and bubbly. It’s hearty, flavorful, and ready in under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights, potlucks, or family dinners. Bold Cajun seasoning meets rich creaminess for a dish that’s guaranteed to impress.
Equipment
- Large pot (for pasta)
- Skillet for chicken and sauce
- Baking dish (9x13 inch)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 12 oz (340 g) pasta (penne or rigatoni)
- 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast or thighs, diced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese
- 1 cup milk or chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- ½ cup shredded cheddar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook pasta until just shy of al dente. Drain.
- Cook chicken: Season chicken with Cajun spices. Sear in olive oil until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Make sauce: In the same skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper. Add garlic. Stir in cream cheese, milk/broth, and Cajun seasoning until smooth.
- Combine: Mix pasta, chicken, and sauce in a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and cheddar.
- Bake: Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
- Rest & Serve: Let rest 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley or green onions. Serve hot.
Notes
- Don’t overcook pasta before baking—it will finish in the oven.
- Use freshly grated cheese for the best melt.
- Bake uncovered for a golden crust.
- Variations: Add spinach, mushrooms, or swap chicken for shrimp or sausage.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk to keep creamy.