ChickenPasta

The Ultimate Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake

30 minutes Cook
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Tired of the same old weeknight dinners? Let’s spice things up. If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with flavor, incredibly comforting, and surprisingly easy to make, you’ve come to the right place. This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake is the ultimate fusion of zesty Southern spice and rich, cheesy comfort.

Imagine tender chunks of seasoned chicken and savory sausage nestled in a bed of pasta, all enveloped in a luscious, spicy cream cheese sauce. Topped with a golden-brown layer of melted cheese, every bite is a perfect harmony of creamy, spicy, and savory. It’s a restaurant-quality dish you can easily whip up in your own kitchen, and it’s guaranteed to become a new family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just another pasta bake. Here’s why this recipe will earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation:

  • Creamy & Spicy Perfection: The combination of rich cream cheese and bold Cajun seasoning creates a sauce that’s addictively delicious without being overwhelmingly spicy.
  • A Weeknight Savior: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this dish comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Power: It’s a guaranteed hit with both adults and kids. It’s hearty, cheesy, and satisfying for even the pickiest eaters (you can adjust the spice!).
  • Fantastic for Leftovers: This pasta bake reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or next-day lunches.
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Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake

canvageekgmail-com
prep time
15 minutes
cooking time
30 minutes
servings
6-8
total time
45 minutes

Equipment

  • Large Pot

  • Colander

  • Large Oven-Safe Skillet (or Dutch Oven)

  • 9x13 Inch Baking Dish (if skillet isn't oven-safe)

  • Cutting Board

  • Chef's Knife

  • Whisk

  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula

  • Measuring Cups and Spoons

  • Cheese Grater

Ingredients

  • 1 lb penne, rigatoni, or ziti pasta

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

  • 8 oz Andouille or other smoked sausage

  • 1 bell pepper (any color)

  • 1 medium onion

  • 2 tablespoons butter

  • 3 cloves garlic

  • 8 oz block cream cheese

  • 1 cup chicken broth

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • 2-3 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 1 ½ cups shredded cheese blend (mozzarella, Monterey Jack, etc.)

  • Fresh parsley or sliced green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1

Cook the Pasta

Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions, but cook it for 1-2 minutes less than al dente. It will finish cooking in the oven. Drain and set aside.
2

Sauté the Chicken, Sausage, and Veggies

While the pasta cooks, heat a large, oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and sausage, seasoning with 1 tablespoon of the Cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and the sausage is crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Add the diced onion and bell pepper and cook for another 4-5 minutes, until softened. Remove everything from the skillet and set aside.
3

Create the Creamy Cajun Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Reduce heat to low and whisk in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the cubed cream cheese and whisk continuously until it has completely melted into a smooth sauce. Stir in the heavy cream, the remaining Cajun seasoning, and the grated Parmesan cheese. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce has slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
4

Combine and Bake

Return the cooked chicken, sausage, and veggies to the skillet with the sauce. Add the drained pasta and stir everything together until the pasta is evenly coated. If your skillet isn't oven-safe, transfer the mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top evenly with the shredded cheese blend. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and starting to turn golden brown on top. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Expert Tips and Variations

  • Control the Spice: Cajun seasoning blends vary in heat. Start with 2 tablespoons and add more if you like it extra spicy. Remember, you can always add heat, but you can't take it away!
  • Don't Overcook the Pasta: This is crucial! Undercooking it slightly ensures it will be perfectly tender after baking, not mushy.
  • The Secret to a Smooth Sauce: Make sure your cream cheese is softened, and add it to the broth on low heat. Whisking constantly prevents clumping.
  • Veggie Variations: Feel free to add a cup of fresh spinach to the sauce at the end, or sauté some mushrooms with the peppers and onions.
  • Protein Swap: Don't have sausage? Use all chicken or try it with shrimp (add the shrimp during the last few minutes of cooking the sauce to avoid overcooking).
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