Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Save this recipe on:

When I’m craving comfort food that packs a punch, this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is my go-to. It’s warm, creamy, spicy, and loaded with flavor. I remember the first time I made it, the entire house smelled like a cozy bistro in New Orleans, and everyone at the table practically inhaled it. Since then, it’s been a regular feature in my dinner rotation.

The magic begins with tender pieces of chicken tossed in a smoky Cajun spice blend, seared to perfection and simmered in a silky cream cheese sauce that clings to every strand of pasta. There’s something indulgent yet deeply satisfying about this dish, especially when it’s bubbling hot from the oven with gooey cheese stretching with every forkful.

Over time, I’ve learned how versatile and crowd-pleasing this recipe is. It’s the kind of meal you can bring to potlucks, serve for weeknight dinners, or even enjoy as leftovers (if there are any!). And if you love rich pasta dishes like my Creamy Tuscan Sausage Pasta or Marry Me Chicken Pasta, this one is going to become a fast favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

This dish strikes the perfect balance between bold Cajun flavors and creamy comfort. The blend of spices adds heat and depth, while the cream cheese mellows everything with its rich, tangy smoothness. It’s easy to customize with your favorite pasta or cheese, and it’s a complete meal in one dish. Best of all, it reheats like a dream, making it ideal for meal prepping or enjoying as next-day leftovers.

Ingredients

The star of this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is the chicken breast, sliced and seared until golden. It’s a lean, protein-rich base that soaks up the Cajun spice mix beautifully. The Cajun seasoning itself is essential for delivering that warm, spicy, smoky flavor characteristic of Louisiana cuisine.

Cream cheese is the soul of the sauce. It melts into a velvety texture, lending a luscious tang that complements the spice perfectly. To boost creaminess and balance the heat, I also use a bit of heavy cream. Parmesan cheese adds a nutty richness and helps the sauce thicken to the perfect consistency.

Pasta is the canvas that carries all this flavor. I prefer penne or rigatoni because the ridges catch every drop of the sauce. Onions and garlic offer foundational flavor, while a touch of bell pepper brings color and sweetness. Topping the bake with shredded mozzarella gives it that bubbly, cheesy finish we all crave.

How to Make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Season the sliced chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In the same skillet, add chopped onions and bell peppers. Sauté until soft and slightly caramelized. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Cajun Sauce

Lower the heat and add cream cheese to the skillet. Stir until melted and smooth. Pour in heavy cream and whisk to combine. Add Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce thickens. Adjust seasoning with more Cajun spice if desired.

Step 4: Combine with Pasta

Cook your pasta al dente and drain. Add the cooked pasta and seared chicken to the skillet and toss everything to coat evenly in the sauce.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re out of chicken breasts, chicken thighs work just as well and bring a slightly richer flavor. For a spicier kick, toss in a bit of cayenne or hot sauce. If you’re watching dairy, try using a dairy-free cream cheese and unsweetened oat milk for a lighter but still creamy result.

You can also use other types of pasta like rotini, fusilli, or even spaghetti. Want more vegetables? Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. And if you’re craving more protein, shrimp or andouille sausage are excellent Cajun-style additions.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This pasta bake is hearty enough to stand on its own, but I love pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed in vinaigrette to balance the richness. Garlic bread or crusty rolls make a great companion to mop up the sauce. For drinks, a chilled glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a citrusy mocktail really complements the spices.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store leftovers, simply transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the pasta bake in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess.

FAQs

Can I make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble everything ahead and refrigerate the unbaked dish. When ready to eat, bake it straight from the fridge, adding about 5 extra minutes to the cook time.

What type of pasta is best for Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake?

I recommend pasta with ridges like penne or rigatoni. They hold onto the creamy sauce well and provide a satisfying bite.

Is Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake very spicy?

It has a mild to medium heat level. You can dial it up with extra Cajun spice or tone it down by using less. It’s very customizable.

Can I freeze Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake?

Yes, this dish freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly or store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight before reheating for best results.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If this creamy pasta bake made your taste buds sing, then you need to try my Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts next. It’s rich, easy, and loaded with garlicky goodness that complements the bold Cajun flavors you just enjoyed. Another must-make is the ultra-comforting Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti, perfect for busy days when you still want something cozy and indulgent.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

Don’t forget to pin this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake to your dinner board on Pinterest so you can find it again easily. Share it with your friends and family on Facebook or by text, especially if they love comforting pasta dishes with a little kick. It’s also a great recipe to post in your favorite foodie group—trust me, they’ll thank you!

Save this recipe on: