Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake

If you’re craving a comforting dish that brings together bold flavors and rich, cheesy goodness, look no further than this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake. It’s a satisfying meal that combines perfectly seasoned chicken, tender penne pasta, and a luscious creamy sauce all baked to bubbly perfection. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for several reasons. First, it’s packed with flavor thanks to the Cajun seasoning that adds a spicy kick without overwhelming the dish. The creamy sauce balances the heat beautifully, while the combination of Parmesan and mozzarella cheese creates a melty, golden crust on top. It’s incredibly easy to make with simple ingredients and comes together in one dish, making clean-up a breeze. Plus, the diced chicken breast ensures every bite is hearty and satisfying. If you love dishes like Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta, this bake will quickly become a go-to comfort food.

Ingredient List

• 12 ounces penne pasta – the perfect shape to hold onto all that sauce
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing
• 1 medium onion, chopped finely
• 3 cloves garlic, minced to infuse flavor
• 1 bell pepper, diced (choose your favorite color for vibrancy)
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning – adds that signature spice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – freshly ground preferred
• 1 cup heavy cream – creates the rich, velvety sauce
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – sharp and nutty flavor
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – for gooey meltiness
• 1/2 cup chicken broth – to add depth and moisture
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped – for a fresh, herbal finish

Equipment & Tools

• Large pot – for boiling the pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan – to cook the chicken and sauté veggies
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise seasoning and liquids
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring
• Baking dish (about 9×13 inches) – to assemble and bake the pasta
• Oven mitts – safety first when handling hot dishes
• Colander – to drain pasta

Directions: Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake

Step 1: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken, sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Vegetables

In the same skillet, add chopped onion, garlic, and diced bell pepper. Sauté until vegetables are soft and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce heat to medium-low. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 3-4 minutes, letting it thicken slightly.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Cheese

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce and vegetables. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and incorporated.

Step 6: Assemble the Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked pasta with the creamy chicken mixture. Transfer everything to the baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella evenly over the top.

Step 7: Bake and Garnish

Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden. Remove from the oven and sprinkle fresh parsley over the top before serving.

Season-by-Season Upgrades

• Spring: Add fresh asparagus tips or peas for a pop of color and sweetness.
• Summer: Incorporate diced tomatoes or roasted corn to brighten the dish.
• Fall: Mix in sautéed mushrooms or kale for earthy, hearty flavors.
• Winter: Boost comfort with caramelized onions or a pinch of smoked paprika for warmth.

Avoid These Traps

• Overcooking the pasta – it should be al dente, as it will continue cooking in the oven.
• Using too much heavy cream – this can make the dish overly rich and heavy.
• Skipping the browning step for the chicken – it adds essential flavor depth.
• Neglecting to season properly – seasoning at each step layers the flavors perfectly.

Keep-It-Fresh Plan

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. For longer storage, this bake freezes well—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Keep fresh parsley separate until serving for the brightest flavor and color.

Common Qs About Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While penne works beautifully because of its shape and texture, you can substitute with rigatoni, fusilli, or even macaroni. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the pasta is al dente before baking.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the Cajun seasoning to half a teaspoon or substitute with a mild paprika and garlic powder blend. The creamy sauce also helps mellow the heat, so don’t skip it!

Is it possible to make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken, sauce, and pasta separately, then assemble the bake just before putting it in the oven. This makes it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

For a lighter version, you can swap heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk. Keep in mind that the sauce might be slightly less thick and rich, but still delicious.

Healthy-ish Favorites

• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta One Pot – a quick and easy twist with sausage and veggies.
• Creamy Ranch Chicken Pasta – a tangy, flavorful pasta dish that’s just as comforting.
• Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad – packed with fiber and fresh produce.
• Zucchini Noodles with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes – a light and vibrant alternative.

Ready, Set, Cook

Gather your ingredients and tools, then dive into making this creamy, spicy, and cheesy pasta bake. It’s perfect for those nights when you want something effortlessly flavorful and satisfying. Plus, the leftovers taste just as good the next day — if you have any! Whether it’s weeknight dinner or weekend comfort food, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake checks all the boxes for a hearty, delicious meal that’s easy to prepare and delightful to eat. Enjoy!

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