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Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

A comforting and flavorful pasta bake with Cajun spices, chicken, and creamy cheeses, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 560

Ingredients
  

Pasta
  • 12 oz penne or rotini pasta Opt for penne or rotini for their ability to trap the sauce.
Chicken and Seasoning
  • 2 pieces chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning Adjust based on your taste preference.
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
Vegetables
  • 1 small onion, diced Fresh is best for flavor.
  • 1 medium red bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
Cheese and Cream
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened Full-fat varieties yield a richer sauce.
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tsp paprika
Seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
  • Chopped parsley (optional) For garnish.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the cubed chicken and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, cooking until browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook for about 3–4 minutes, until softened.
  5. Add the softened cream cheese to the skillet, stirring until melted and mixed well with the vegetables.
Cooking
  1. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking to create a smooth sauce. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan, paprika, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking, stirring, until the sauce thickens and cheese melts.
  2. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, then add the drained pasta, mixing everything together until well combined.
  3. Transfer the mixture to a greased 9” x 13” baking dish and spread evenly.
  4. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serving
  1. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.

Notes

Allow the dish to sit for about 5 minutes after baking to help it set up nicely. Leftover strategy: Use them in a lunch wrap or as a topping for baked potatoes.