Baked Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo

If you’re craving a rich, comforting meal with a bit of a spicy kick, this Baked Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo is sure to satisfy. Combining tender, perfectly seasoned chicken breasts with a luscious, cheesy Alfredo sauce and perfectly cooked fettuccine, this dish is the ultimate cozy dinner for any night of the week. The added touch of Cajun seasoning brings a bold flavor that elevates the classic Alfredo to new heights, while baking it all together creates a luscious, bubbly top layer that’s simply irresistible.

Why I Love This Recipe

This Baked Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen because it’s the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and cheesy goodness. The Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a beautiful smoky heat without overpowering the dish, while the cream cheese and Parmesan meld into a velvety sauce that wraps every strand of fettuccine. Plus, it’s baked to perfection, making it an easy, hands-off dinner that impresses every time. Whether you’re serving it for a family meal or a special occasion, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. And if you love creamy pasta dishes, you might also enjoy the Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for another twist on that comforting Cajun flavor.

Ingredient Notes

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: These provide lean protein and absorb the Cajun seasoning beautifully. Feel free to use chicken thighs if you want a juicier option.
• Olive oil: Used to sear the chicken, adding flavor and helping achieve that golden crust.
• Cajun seasoning: A blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne that gives the dish its signature kick. Adjust the amount to your spice preference.
• Fettuccine pasta: The wide, flat noodles hold onto the creamy sauce perfectly. You can substitute with linguine or tagliatelle if preferred.
• Heavy cream: Creates the rich, decadent base of the Alfredo sauce. For a lighter option, you could substitute half-and-half, though the sauce will be less thick.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds savory depth and helps thicken the sauce while contributing that classic Alfredo flavor.
• Cream cheese (softened): Gives the sauce extra creaminess and a slight tang that balances the richness.
• Garlic powder & onion powder: Enhance the flavor profile without overpowering the sauce.
• Black pepper & red pepper flakes: These add subtle heat and complexity. Red pepper flakes can be adjusted or omitted based on spice tolerance.
• Chopped green onions: Used as a fresh, vibrant garnish that adds color and a mild onion flavor to finish the dish.

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Large pot – for boiling the pasta
• Large skillet – to sear the chicken breasts
• Baking dish (9×13 inches) – to bake the assembled pasta and sauce
• Mixing bowl – to combine the Alfredo sauce ingredients
• Whisk or spoon – for mixing the sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise seasoning
• Sharp knife and cutting board – for slicing the chicken and chopping green onions

Directions: Baked Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Start by patting your 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then sprinkle 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning evenly over both sides. This will infuse the chicken with bold flavor and a touch of heat. Let it rest for a few minutes while you prepare the pasta.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add 8 ounces of fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente—usually around 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside. Toss the pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking if needed.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat your skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken has a nice golden crust. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Alfredo Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine 1 cup heavy cream, 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese, ½ cup softened cream cheese, 1 tablespoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon black pepper, and ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes. Whisk until smooth and creamy. This luscious sauce is the heart of your dish.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In your baking dish, combine the cooked fettuccine, sliced Cajun chicken, and Alfredo sauce. Toss gently to coat the pasta and chicken evenly with the sauce.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the top begins to turn golden. This step melds all the flavors together and gives the dish a comforting baked texture.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven and sprinkle ¼ cup of chopped green onions on top for a fresh pop of flavor and color. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness!

Nutrition-Minded Tweaks

• Use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream to reduce fat content.
• Swap cream cheese for a light cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a tangy, lower-calorie alternative.
• Choose whole wheat or chickpea-based fettuccine for added fiber and protein.
• Reduce the amount of Parmesan slightly or use a reduced-fat version.
• Add steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or spinach for extra nutrients and fiber.

Testing Timeline

• Initial test: Confirmed perfect bake time at 20-25 minutes to achieve a bubbly, creamy texture without drying out the chicken.
• Adjusted seasoning: Tried different Cajun blends to find the right balance of heat and smokiness.
• Sauce consistency: Experimented with cream cheese amounts to ensure the sauce is thick but still pourable.
• Garnish trials: Tested green onions vs. fresh parsley and found green onions add a subtle onion flavor that complements the Cajun spices best.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

This Baked Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen the sauce.

For freezing, portion the dish into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating using the same method. This makes for a convenient, satisfying meal any time you need a quick dinner fix.

Reader Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! If you have leftover cooked chicken, you can slice it and mix it into the pasta and sauce before baking. Just reduce the baking time to around 15 minutes to heat everything through without drying out the chicken.

Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap regular fettuccine for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to cook it according to package instructions as gluten-free pasta can have different cooking times.

Can I add vegetables to the baked pasta?

Definitely. Adding vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms can add nutrition and flavor. You can stir them into the sauce before baking or layer them in with the chicken and pasta.

How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this recipe?

The Cajun seasoning adds a moderate level of heat with smoky and earthy undertones. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the Cajun seasoning by half or omit the red pepper flakes. For more heat, feel free to add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Our Most-Loved Recipes

• Spinach Artichoke Alfredo Pasta – a creamy and veggie-packed twist on Alfredo.
• Cheesy Bbq Chicken Pasta Casserole – smoky, cheesy, and perfect for comfort food lovers.
• Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta – another spicy, creamy pasta dish with succulent shrimp.

The Last Word

This Baked Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo is the perfect marriage of indulgent creaminess and bold, spicy flavor. The simplicity of ingredients combined with the ease of preparation makes it a fantastic weeknight dinner or a special meal to share with loved ones. The baked finish gives it a comforting, homey touch that elevates the dish beyond your typical stovetop Alfredo. Whether you’re a seasoned Cajun fan or just love a rich, cheesy pasta, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your recipe box. So grab your skillet, preheat that oven, and get ready to enjoy a plateful of creamy, spicy, baked goodness tonight!

Share on Pinterest