Before I dive into the cheesy details, let me just say—thank you for being here! Recipes like this Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake are exactly why I love sharing comfort food with you all. It’s hearty, creamy, and just the right amount of spicy… the kind of dish that makes the whole family gather around the table a little faster.
This pasta bake has everything: tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, a luscious Cajun cream sauce, and a golden, bubbly cheese topping. Truly a weeknight dinner hero!!
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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✨ Comfort food classic: Creamy sauce + melted cheese = happiness.
🔥 Packed with flavor: Cajun seasoning brings bold, smoky, spicy notes.
🕒 Easy to make ahead: Assemble earlier, bake later!
👨👩👧👦 Crowd-pleaser: Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or casual gatherings.
The taste? Cheesy, savory, with just enough spice to make it exciting—anything but boring!!
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta (rotini or penne)
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Tools You’ll Need
- Large pot (for boiling pasta)
- Large skillet
- 9×13 baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups & spoons
Possible Additions & Substitutions
💡 Want more veggies? Toss in some sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra color and nutrients.
💡 No heavy cream? Use half-and-half or even evaporated milk for a lighter version.
💡 Love it spicy? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce.
💡 Cheese swap: Monterey Jack, Colby, or pepper jack all melt beautifully too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through (about 6–8 minutes). Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
In the same skillet, reduce heat to low. Add heavy cream and cream cheese, stirring until smooth and creamy. Sprinkle in the remaining Cajun seasoning and mix until combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Add cooked pasta and chicken into the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything in that velvety sauce.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the mixture into a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top generously with shredded cheese. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve warm.
What to Serve with Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake
- A fresh garden salad with a light vinaigrette
- Garlic bread (because carbs deserve company!)
- Roasted vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or green beans
- A cool glass of iced tea or white wine to balance the spice
Tips for Making the Perfect Pasta Bake
⭐ Don’t overcook the pasta! It’ll soften more in the oven.
⭐ Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.
⭐ Make it ahead: Assemble up to a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
⭐ For extra golden topping: Broil for the last 2 minutes—just keep a close eye on it!
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Bake covered at 350°F until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for quick meals.
General Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty: Easy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s not overly salty—some blends are stronger than others.
Q: Can I make this with shrimp or sausage instead of chicken?
Yes! Cajun shrimp or smoked sausage (like andouille) are fantastic alternatives.
Q: How can I make it less spicy for kids?
Use half the Cajun seasoning or choose a mild version, then add a pinch of paprika for color.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap in gluten-free pasta and double-check your Cajun seasoning ingredients.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 32g
- Fat: 28g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
Conclusion
This Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake is everything comfort food should be—creamy, cheesy, and full of bold flavor! It’s the kind of dish that feels indulgent but is so easy to whip up, you’ll find yourself making it again and again.
If you’re craving more cozy dinners, try my Jalapeño Popper Deviled Eggs or the Crock Pot Mississippi Roast—both guaranteed to make your weeknights extra special.
💬 I’d love to hear from you!
Leave a review below or share your cheesy masterpiece on Pinterest and tag me so I can see your delicious creation.
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