CAJUN CREAM CHEESE CHICKEN PASTA BAKE
Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a creamy, spicy casserole loaded with tender chicken, pasta, and melted cheese. It’s an easy, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 12 oz pasta penne, rigatoni, or elbow macaroni
- 1 lb boneless chicken breast diced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 oz cream cheese softened
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 small onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish optional
Instructions
Cook Pasta:
- Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Cook Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss chicken with Cajun seasoning, then cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
Sauté Veggies:
- In the same skillet, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
Make Sauce:
- Reduce heat to low and stir in cream cheese and heavy cream until smooth. Add cheddar and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
Combine:
- Add cooked pasta and chicken to the sauce. Stir well to coat evenly.
Bake:
- Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20–25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Serve:
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Notes
- Make Ahead: Prepare sauce and chicken ahead; combine and bake when ready.
- Variations: Use smoked sausage or add bell peppers for extra flavour.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a green salad or steamed vegetables.
- Allergy-Friendly: Contains dairy and gluten; substitute as needed.