Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Rich, spicy, and unapologetically creamy, this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is comfort food with a bold, Southern kick. Made in one pot and finished in the oven, it’s packed with tender chicken, savory spices, and penne pasta smothered in a luscious cream cheese sauce. Fire-roasted tomatoes add a smoky depth, while green onions brighten up the dish with a pop of freshness. It’s everything you love about Cajun cuisine wrapped up in a cozy, bubbling casserole.

What makes this recipe shine is the balance of heat and creaminess. The spice blend—smoked paprika, cayenne, thyme, garlic powder, and more—delivers that signature Cajun warmth, while the cream cheese and chicken broth meld together to form a smooth, velvety sauce. Plus, because it’s all made in one pot, cleanup is a breeze.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or prepping comfort food for the week, this pasta bake is a flavorful, satisfying solution. One bite and you’ll see why this dish earns a permanent spot on the dinner rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pot Wonder – Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
2. Bold Cajun Flavor – A perfect mix of spice, smoke, and savoriness.
3. Ultra Creamy Sauce – Cream cheese creates a rich, velvety texture.
4. Hearty and Satisfying – Loaded with pasta, chicken, and vegetables for a full meal.
5. Customizable – Easily adjust the heat or swap ingredients to fit your preferences.

Ingredients

• Smoked paprika
• Oregano
• Thyme
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Cayenne pepper
• Black pepper
• Salt
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• Yellow onion
• Penne pasta (or other short pasta)
• Fire-roasted diced tomatoes
• Chicken broth (or water + bouillon)
• Cream cheese
• Green onions

Variations

• Protein Swap: Use shrimp or sausage instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Veggie Boost: Add spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms for extra color and nutrition.
• Spice Control: Reduce cayenne for a milder flavor, or add hot sauce for more heat.
• Cheesy Topping: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella or cheddar on top before baking.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace pasta with cauliflower or zucchini noodles.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Seasoning

In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a large oven-safe skillet or pot. Add diced chicken, season with half the spice blend, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed and sauté chopped yellow onion until soft and fragrant.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Broth

Stir in fire-roasted diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.

Step 5: Add Pasta and Cook

Add the uncooked penne pasta directly into the pot. Stir well, cover, and cook until pasta is al dente, stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Stir in Cream Cheese

Once pasta is tender, reduce heat and stir in cream cheese until fully melted and creamy. Return cooked chicken to the pan.

Step 7: Bake

Top with additional cheese if desired, then transfer to a preheated oven and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10–15 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Remove from oven and top with chopped green onions before serving.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Dice the chicken evenly to ensure even cooking.
• Use room temperature cream cheese for easier melting.
• Stir pasta occasionally while cooking to prevent sticking.
• Add more broth if the pasta absorbs too much liquid.
• Finish under the broiler for a crisp cheesy topping.

How to Serve

Serve this pasta bake hot and fresh from the oven, with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad. It’s hearty enough to stand alone, but also pairs well with roasted vegetables or sautéed greens for a complete meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavor improves as it sits!

Freezing

Freeze in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Stir in cooked chicken when adding the cream cheese to save time.

2. Can I substitute the cream cheese?

You can use heavy cream or a cream cheese alternative, but the texture may be less thick.

3. Is this dish very spicy?

It has a mild to medium kick. Adjust cayenne to suit your taste.

4. What other pasta shapes work?

Short shapes like rotini, rigatoni, or shells work best.

5. Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free cream cheese and butter alternatives.

6. Do I need to boil the pasta separately?

No, it cooks right in the sauce, soaking up flavor and reducing dishes.

7. Can I skip the baking step?

Yes, it’s optional—but baking adds a nice golden top and melds everything together.

8. How can I make it more cheesy?

Stir in shredded cheese or top with cheese before baking.

9. Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely—spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers work great.

10. Can I make it in advance?

Yes! Assemble and refrigerate before baking, or bake fully and reheat.

Conclusion

This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a soul-warming dish that combines bold spices, creamy sauce, and tender chicken into one irresistible comfort meal. Easy enough for weeknights and impressive enough for guests, it delivers everything you love about Southern-inspired cooking in one cheesy, satisfying bake. Make it once, and you’ll be hooked.

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