Go Back
Homemade Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake photo
Print Recipe Save it for later

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake is a spicy, cheesy, and comforting one-dish meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 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

Instructions

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Equipment

  • Large Pot
  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula
  • Baking dish (about 9x13 inches)
  • Oven mitts
  • Colander

Notes

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat gently with added broth or cream if needed.
  • For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk.
  • You can easily adjust the spice level by reducing Cajun seasoning or substituting with milder spices.
  • Add seasonal veggies like asparagus, tomatoes, or mushrooms to customize flavors year-round.
  • Brown the chicken well to enhance the depth of flavor in the dish.