Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a rich and hearty casserole bursting with bold spices, creamy cheese, and tender chicken. Packed with colorful vegetables like red bell peppers, broccoli, and juicy tomatoes, this pasta dish is a complete one-pan meal that delivers both comfort and flavor. A luscious sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan, and melted shredded cheese is seasoned with Cajun spice for a zesty kick, while the addition of cream cheese brings a smooth, velvety texture that coats every bite.

Ideal for family dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep, this pasta bake is both impressive and approachable. The combination of pan-seared chicken and roasted vegetables baked into bubbling cheese makes it a go-to dish when you want something filling and crowd-pleasing. The Cajun seasoning can be adjusted to taste, making this recipe as mild or as fiery as you prefer. With minimal prep and plenty of flavor, this cheesy pasta bake satisfies cravings and adds variety to your weeknight meal lineup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold and creamy flavor

The Cajun seasoning paired with cream cheese and melty cheeses creates a rich, spicy, and creamy sauce.

Hearty and satisfying

Packed with chicken, pasta, and vegetables, it’s a full, well-balanced meal in one pan.

Customizable spice level

You can easily control the heat by adjusting the amount of Cajun seasoning.

Great for leftovers

This pasta bake stores and reheats well, making it perfect for next-day meals or meal prep.

Family-friendly

It’s comforting, cheesy, and flavorful—appealing to kids and adults alike.

Ingredients

Chicken (tenders, breasts, or thighs)
Butter
Red onion
Garlic
Broccoli florets
Red bell pepper
Roma tomatoes
Pasta (farfalle, penne, or your choice)
Heavy whipping cream
Chicken stock or broth
Parmesan cheese
Shredded cheese (Colby Jack, Cheddar, Pepper Jack)
Cajun seasoning
Salt and pepper
Olive oil

Variations

• Make it spicier: Add red pepper flakes or extra Cajun seasoning for more heat.
• Lighten it up: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or reduce the cheese slightly.
• Add more veggies: Include mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for more nutrition.
• Use different pasta: Rigatoni, rotini, or shells all work well.
• Swap proteins: Use shrimp or sausage instead of chicken for a different take.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Preheat your oven to 375°F. Cook the pasta in salted water until al dente, drain, and set aside.

Step 2

Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat and sear chicken until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3

In the same skillet, melt butter. Add diced red onion and cook until softened. Stir in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.

Step 4

Add broccoli florets and diced bell pepper, cooking for a few minutes until slightly tender. Stir in diced tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 5

Pour in the chicken stock and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and stir in grated Parmesan until melted and smooth.

Step 6

Cut cooked chicken into bite-size pieces and return to the skillet. Add 2 cups of shredded cheese and mix until melted.

Step 7

Add cooked pasta to the sauce mixture and stir until fully combined and coated.

Step 8

Transfer everything to a large baking dish. Top with the remaining shredded cheese.

Step 9

Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden. Let cool slightly before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Cut vegetables into even pieces so they cook uniformly.
• Sear the chicken in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan.
• Don’t overcook the pasta—it will continue to cook in the oven.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
• Taste the sauce before baking and adjust seasoning if necessary.

How to Serve

Serve this pasta bake hot, straight from the oven, with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables or a simple tomato-cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the casserole to cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Freeze individual portions or the entire dish in a freezer-safe container. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat in a 350°F oven until warmed through or microwave individual servings on medium power, stirring halfway.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, cooked rotisserie chicken can be used. Just skip the searing step and add it to the sauce.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Farfalle, penne, rotini, or rigatoni hold the sauce well and don’t overcook easily.

Can I make this without cream cheese?

You can omit it, but the sauce will be less creamy. Substitute with a little more heavy cream or Greek yogurt.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low when adding dairy, and avoid boiling the sauce after adding cheese.

Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

Yes, but freshly shredded melts better and gives a smoother sauce.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild kick. Add more Cajun seasoning or cayenne if you prefer it spicier.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the entire casserole and refrigerate unbaked for up to 24 hours.

How do I keep the pasta from drying out?

Cover with foil if reheating or baking later. You can also add a splash of cream before reheating.

What vegetables go well in this dish?

Spinach, mushrooms, corn, and zucchini are great additions.

Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a flavorful and filling dish that combines the warmth of Cajun spices with the comfort of a creamy, cheesy pasta casserole. It’s easy enough for a busy weeknight but delicious enough to serve guests or take to potlucks. Loaded with juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and gooey cheese, this one-dish wonder is sure to become a staple in your recipe rotation. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or reheated for lunch the next day, it’s a satisfying and flavorful meal you’ll come back to again and again.

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