Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake
This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake combines creamy cheese, tender chicken, and a spicy Cajun kick, making it the ultimate comfort food. The rich cream cheese sauce melds perfectly with the bold spices, creating a flavorful, hearty dish. Perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or a cozy evening at home, this dish is simple to prepare and sure to impress. Whether you're craving something cheesy, spicy, or creamy, this baked pasta is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for more!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun/Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts, diced
- 8 oz pasta (penne or rotini works best)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 1/2 cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Cook pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken, seasoning with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. Cook for 6-8 minutes until fully cooked, then set aside.
- In the same skillet, add cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir until the cream cheese melts and the sauce becomes smooth.
- Add shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and the sauce thickens.
- Add cooked chicken and pasta, stirring to combine evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to the baking dish and top with additional mozzarella cheese, if desired.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped green onions and serve.
Notes
- You can substitute chicken with shrimp or mushrooms for different variations.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning for more or less spice depending on your preference.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta.
