Name: Creamy Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 35 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz penne or rotini pasta; 2 chicken breasts, cubed; 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 small onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley (for garnish, optional)

Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a vibrant celebration of flavor, comfort, and culinary creativity that promises to transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Louisiana with a delightfully creamy twist. I’ve always been captivated by the rich, rustic charm of Cajun cuisine, known for its bold spices, aromatic trinity of onion, celery, and bell pepper, and its ability to turn simple ingredients into something truly extraordinary. While traditional Cajun dishes often lean towards gumbos and jambalayas, this particular bake takes those iconic, fiery elements and marries them with the ultimate comfort of a cheesy, creamy pasta. It’s a truly irresistible fusion that brings together the best of both worlds!

People adore this dish for countless reasons. Imagine tender chunks of chicken, perfectly seasoned with authentic Cajun spices, enveloped in a luxuriously smooth cream cheese sauce, all baked to golden perfection with your favorite pasta. The robust, smoky heat of the Cajun seasoning is beautifully tempered by the cool, tangy cream cheese, creating a harmonious balance that is both exciting and deeply satisfying. This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe offers a comforting embrace after a long day, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a show-stopping centerpiece for your next family gathering. Get ready to indulge in a dish that’s rich, flavorful, and incredibly easy to love.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, plus more if needed
- 2-3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
For the Pasta:
- 16 ounces (1 box) pasta of your choice – penne, rigatoni, rotini, or cavatappi work wonderfully as they hold the sauce well
- 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 large yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 stalks celery, finely diced
- 1 large green bell pepper, finely diced
- 4-5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
- 2 cups heavy cream (or whipping cream)
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1-2 tablespoons additional Cajun seasoning (to taste, depending on desired heat and flavor intensity)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra kick)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons hot sauce (like Tabasco or Louisiana hot sauce) for an authentic Southern zing
For the Assembly & Topping:
- 2 cups shredded cheese blend (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, or a Mexican blend works beautifully)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Phase 1: Preparing the Chicken for our Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Prepare and Season the Chicken: Let’s start by getting our chicken ready for this incredible Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake. Take your chicken breasts or thighs and pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. This crucial step helps create a beautiful sear. Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch cubes. In a medium bowl, toss the chicken cubes with 2-3 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Make sure every piece is evenly coated. I always advise being generous with the seasoning here, as this is where a significant portion of that signature Cajun flavor will come from.
Sear the Chicken: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. You want the oil to shimmer but not smoke. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You might need to do this in two batches to ensure proper browning. Sear the chicken for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until it’s beautifully golden brown and cooked through. It should have a nice, crusty exterior. Cook until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and transfer it to a clean plate. Don’t worry about the flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan; those are going to be wonderful for our sauce! Set the chicken aside.

Phase 2: Cooking the Pasta to Perfection

Boil the Pasta Water: While your chicken is searing or resting, let’s get the pasta going. Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. It’s important to use a generously sized pot to allow the pasta to move freely. Once it’s boiling vigorously, add 1 tablespoon of salt to the water. Seasoning your pasta water is a non-negotiable step – it’s the only chance you get to flavor the pasta itself, ensuring our Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake has depth in every bite.
Cook the Pasta: Add your chosen pasta (penne, rigatoni, or rotini are fantastic choices) to the boiling salted water. Stir immediately to prevent the pasta from sticking together. Cook according to package directions, but aim for al dente – meaning it should be firm to the bite, not mushy. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remember, the pasta will continue to cook a bit more in the oven, so slightly undercooking it is better than overcooking it.
Drain the Pasta and Reserve Water: Once the pasta is al dente, carefully drain it using a colander. However, before you pour out all that precious water, reserve about 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking liquid. This liquid is a secret weapon for our sauce; it helps to emulsify and thicken it, ensuring it clings beautifully to every strand of pasta. Set the drained pasta aside.

Phase 3: Crafting the Irresistible Creamy Cajun Sauce

Sauté the “Holy Trinity”: Using the same skillet where you cooked the chicken (don’t clean it!), melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. The browned bits at the bottom of the pan will infuse so much flavor into our sauce. Add the finely diced yellow onion, celery, and green bell pepper – this is the “Holy Trinity” of Cajun cuisine, forming the aromatic base of our sauce. Sauté these vegetables, stirring occasionally, for about 7-10 minutes, or until they have softened and the onion becomes translucent. The aroma filling your kitchen right now should be absolutely fantastic!
Add Garlic and Deglaze: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Now, pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to vigorously scrape up all those flavorful browned bits (fond) from the bottom of the pan. This process, called deglazing, adds incredible depth and complexity to our Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake. Let the broth simmer for a minute or two, allowing it to slightly reduce.
Melt in the Cream Cheese: Reduce the heat to low. Add the softened cream cheese cubes to the skillet. Whisk continuously until the cream cheese has completely melted and the sauce is smooth and lump-free. It will look thick and rich at this stage, setting the foundation for the ultimate creamy texture.
Introduce Heavy Cream and Seasonings: Slowly pour in the 2 cups of heavy cream, whisking constantly to incorporate it smoothly. Increase the heat to medium-low and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer. Do not boil vigorously. Now, it’s time to infuse that signature Cajun flavor! Stir in the additional 1-2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon of dried oregano, and the optional ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Mix well until all the spices are fully distributed.
Finalize the Sauce: Remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the ½ cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and creates an even silkier consistency. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings as needed. This is your chance to add more salt, black pepper, Cajun seasoning, or even a dash of hot sauce if you desire more heat and a brighter zing. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash or two of that reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Remember, a well-seasoned sauce is key to a truly outstanding Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe.
Combine Chicken with Sauce: Gently fold the cooked, diced chicken back into the creamy Cajun sauce. Ensure all the chicken pieces are coated in the luscious sauce. This allows the chicken to absorb even more of that delicious flavor.

Phase 4: Assembling Our Hearty Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This will prevent sticking and make cleanup a little easier.
Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained, al dente pasta directly to the skillet with the creamy Cajun chicken sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is thoroughly coated in the sauce. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite of our Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is packed with flavor. If the mixture seems a bit dry at this point, feel free to add another splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve a perfectly saucy consistency.
Layer in the Baking Dish: Transfer half of the pasta and chicken mixture into the prepared 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Sprinkle half (about 1 cup) of the shredded cheese blend over this first layer.
Add Second Layer and Top with Cheese: Spoon the remaining pasta and chicken mixture over the cheese layer, spreading it out gently. Finally, generously sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese blend over the top. This top layer of cheese will melt into a glorious golden crust.

Phase 5: Baking to Golden Perfection

Bake the Pasta Bake: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly around the edges and the cheese on top is melted, golden brown, and slightly crispy. The aroma filling your kitchen will be irresistible, signaling that your Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is nearly ready!
Rest and Garnish: Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake from the oven. Let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period is important as it allows the sauce to set slightly, preventing it from being too runny when you scoop it out. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley, which adds a beautiful pop of color and a touch of freshness.
Serve and Enjoy!: Serve this comforting and incredibly flavorful Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake hot, straight from the dish. It’s a complete meal on its own, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. I love to serve it with a simple side salad and some crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. Get ready for rave reviews and empty plates – this recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser!

Conclusion:

After all our culinary adventures together, you now have in your hands the complete guide to creating what I genuinely believe will become a staple in your home: this incredible Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake. Seriously, if you’re looking for a dish that effortlessly marries robust, zesty flavors with the ultimate creamy comfort, then your search ends here. This isn’t just another pasta bake; it’s a vibrant symphony of tastes that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Louisiana with every single forkful. The tender chicken, perfectly seasoned with an authentic Cajun kick, nestled amongst al dente pasta, all enveloped in a rich, velvety cream cheese sauce that’s utterly irresistible – it’s a combination that sounds almost too good to be true, but I promise you, it’s very real and very achievable right in your own kitchen. This recipe truly offers the best of both worlds: the vibrant, exciting spice of Cajun cuisine perfectly balanced by the luxurious, comforting embrace of a creamy pasta bake.

But the magic of this dish doesn’t stop at its core; it’s also incredibly versatile and begging for your personal touch. While it’s absolutely phenomenal straight out of the oven, a warm, crusty baguette or some garlic bread is practically mandatory for soaking up every last bit of that luscious sauce. And don’t forget a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness and add a refreshing contrast to your meal. For those who love to experiment, this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is a fantastic canvas. Feeling like a different protein? Swap the chicken for succulent shrimp or savory smoked sausage – or even a combination of all three for a true “Cajun holy trinity” protein experience! If you want to boost the veggie content, consider folding in some fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking the sauce, or sauté some diced bell peppers and onions with your chicken for an extra layer of flavor and nutrition. For those who adore a bit more heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce stirred into the sauce will take it to the next level. On the flip side, if you prefer a milder profile, simply adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your liking. You can also play with the cheese; while cream cheese provides that unparalleled silkiness, a generous sprinkle of sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even some smoked Gouda on top before baking will add a beautiful golden crust and a different dimension of cheesy goodness that you’ll adore. Don’t be afraid to try different pasta shapes too! While I love penne or rotini for how they perfectly hold the sauce, shells, fusilli, or rigatoni would work wonderfully as well, ensuring every bite is loaded with flavor.

I’ve poured my heart into sharing this recipe with you, and I truly believe it’s one that deserves a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner, impressive enough for guests, and makes fantastic leftovers for lunch the next day. It’s a dish that brings people together and guarantees smiles all around. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some good music, and dive into the joyous process of creating this unforgettable meal. I am so incredibly eager to hear about your experience! Please, please, please don’t hesitate to share your triumphs, your variations, or even your questions in the comments section below. Take a picture of your beautiful creation and tag me on social media – I absolutely love seeing your culinary masterpieces! Let’s create a community around delicious food, and this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is the perfect starting point. Trust me on this one; your taste buds will thank you profusely!

Frequently Asked Questions About Our Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

1. Can I prepare the Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish is fantastic for meal prepping and busy weeknights. You can assemble the entire pasta bake (cooked pasta, chicken, sauce) in the baking dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. When you’re ready to bake, you might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time to ensure it’s heated through evenly and the top is golden brown.

2. How do I store leftovers and what’s the best way to reheat them?

Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can portion it out and microwave it until hot, stirring halfway through to distribute the heat. For a larger portion, cover it loosely with foil and reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 20-30 minutes, or until warmed through. Sometimes adding a splash of milk or chicken broth before reheating can help keep the sauce wonderfully creamy and prevent it from drying out.

3. Can I freeze this pasta bake?

Yes, you can! This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake freezes surprisingly well. Once it has cooled completely, you can freeze individual portions in airtight, freezer-safe containers for up to 2-3 months. To reheat from frozen, it’s best to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat as you would regular leftovers (microwave or oven). You can also reheat directly from frozen in the oven, though it will take longer (around 45-60 minutes covered) and might require a bit more liquid to maintain its signature creaminess.

4. Is this recipe very spicy, and how can I adjust the heat level?

The inherent spice level primarily comes from the Cajun seasoning. Most store-bought Cajun seasonings have a moderate kick, but brands and your personal preference for heat can vary. If you prefer a milder flavor, start with a smaller amount of seasoning (e.g., half the recommended amount) and taste as you go, adding more until you reach your desired level. For those who love extra heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper directly into the sauce along with the other seasonings, or serve with your favorite hot sauce on the side for an individualized fiery boost. You are completely in control of the spice, so don’t be shy about customizing!

5. Can I use other proteins besides chicken in this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe?

Absolutely, and I highly encourage you to experiment! This recipe is incredibly adaptable, making it perfect for using up what you have or catering to different tastes. Cooked shrimp, savory smoked sausage (like Andouille or even Kielbasa for a milder flavor), ground beef, ground turkey, or even sliced pork tenderloin would all be delicious substitutions or fantastic additions. If using shrimp, add it towards the end of the sauce cooking time, as shrimp cooks very quickly and can become rubbery if overcooked. For ground meats or sausage, brown them alongside the onions and garlic before adding the other sauce ingredients to ensure they are fully cooked and flavorful.