Save
This creamy Cajun chicken pasta bake is the kind of dinner that turns an ordinary night into a cozy occasion. The tender chicken melds beautifully with the cheesy sauce, while the Cajun seasoning adds a friendly kick that makes every bite exciting. It’s ideal for family dinners or sharing with friends when you want to impress without stress.
I first made this dish on a chilly evening when I wanted something hearty but fuss-free. Now it’s a favorite that everyone asks for because it tastes both indulgent and homey.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: about one and a half pounds of boneless skinless chicken that stay juicy when cooked
- Pasta: choose penne or rotini for their ability to hold sauce well and provide a pleasant texture
- Cream cheese: full-fat version gives the sauce its rich and velvety texture
- Cajun seasoning: brings a flavorful spicy warmth, adjust according to your taste preference
- Fresh garlic: minced for an aromatic base that enhances all other flavors
- Low-sodium chicken broth: adds moisture and depth without being too salty
- Grated Parmesan cheese: adds a sharp savory note that melts into the sauce
- Olive oil: used to sauté the chicken and garlic gently without burning
- Salt and pepper: to season according to your preference, essential to balance flavors
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit or 190 degrees Celsius. Lightly grease a baking dish with nonstick spray to ensure your pasta bake doesn’t stick and helps with even browning.
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne or rotini pasta and cook it until it reaches al dente—firm to the bite but not hard. Drain thoroughly and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté the Garlic and Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant but not browned. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Place them in the skillet and cook about six to seven minutes on each side until nicely golden and fully cooked inside.
- Prepare the Creamy Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low. Add the cream cheese to the skillet with the cooked chicken along with chicken broth and extra Cajun seasoning if you like more spice. Stir continuously to create a smooth creamy sauce. Then blend in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well combined.
- Combine and Bake:
- Slice the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss them with the drained pasta in the creamy sauce directly in the skillet or a large bowl. Mix everything thoroughly so the pasta is well coated. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Bake for twenty to twenty-five minutes until it bubbles and the top is golden.
Save
My favorite ingredient is the Cajun seasoning because it dramatically lifts the dish from simple to memorable. The first time I made this, my family’s surprised smiles convinced me this was going in our regular rotation.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, cover with foil or a lid to retain moisture and avoid the pasta drying out. This bake also freezes nicely; just thaw overnight in the fridge before warming in the oven.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you can’t find Cajun seasoning, try mixing smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to taste. Use whole milk cream cheese instead of full fat if you want a lighter option but the sauce might be less rich. Penne can be swapped with fusilli or macaroni depending on what you have on hand.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this pasta bake with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or a simple side of steamed broccoli also complement the creamy texture and add freshness to the plate.
Pro Tips
- Toast the Cajun seasoning in the pan before adding the other ingredients to unlock deeper flavors
- Using room temperature cream cheese helps it melt smoothly without lumps in the sauce
- Let the bake rest for about five minutes after removing it from the oven so it sets slightly and is easier to serve
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Penne or rotini are ideal as their shape holds the creamy sauce well, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
- → Can the chicken be substituted or omitted?
While chicken adds heartiness, you can swap it for turkey or a plant-based alternative to suit different preferences.
- → How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this dish?
The Cajun seasoning provides a mild to moderate heat that complements the creamy cheese without overpowering the flavors. Adjust to your liking.
- → Is it necessary to bake the dish after mixing?
Baking melds the flavors and develops a bubbly, golden crust that enhances the texture and appearance of the dish.
- → Can this be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble the layers in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving to enjoy the fresh bubbly finish.