Ingredients for Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes: The star protein, providing hearty substance to this comforting bake. Cube evenly for consistent cooking.
• 16 oz penne pasta: The foundation of our pasta bake, holding the creamy sauce beautifully. Cook al dente as it will finish baking.
• 8 oz (1 block) full-fat cream cheese, softened: Essential for the ultimate creamy, decadent sauce texture. Ensure it’s softened for smooth melting.
• 2 cups chicken broth: Forms the savory liquid base for our rich Cajun sauce. Use low-sodium to control overall saltiness.
• ½ cup heavy cream: Adds luxurious richness and silky smoothness to the sauce. Don’t substitute; it makes all the difference.
• 2 tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing the chicken and vegetables, building initial flavor layers. A good quality oil is key.
• 1 large yellow onion, diced: Aromatic base of our flavorful Cajun trinity, adding essential sweetness and depth. Dice finely for even distribution.
• 1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds crisp sweetness and classic Cajun flavor to the sauce. Complements the onion and garlic perfectly.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced: Intensifies the savory profile and aromatic punch of the dish. Freshly mince for the best flavor.
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Contributes acidity and depth, balancing the creamy richness. Undrained tomatoes add essential liquid to the sauce.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, umami kick and helps thicken the sauce. Freshly grated melts much better than pre-shredded.
• 2-3 tbsp Cajun seasoning (depending on heat preference): The heart of our Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake, delivering vibrant spice. Adjust to your family’s heat preference.
• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste): Enhances all flavors in the dish. Always taste and adjust, especially with salted broth/seasoning.
• ¼ tsp black pepper (adjust to taste): Provides a subtle heat and aromatic warmth. Freshly ground pepper offers the best flavor.
• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adds a pop of fresh color and herbaceous brightness as a garnish. Stir some into the sauce too.
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Creates that irresistible golden, bubbly crust when baked. Freshly shred for superior melting and texture.

How to Make Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Cook Chicken & Veggies:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Sear chicken cubes until lightly browned, then remove. Add diced onion and bell pepper, sauté until softened, then mince garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.

Make Sauce Base:

Into the same skillet, add chicken broth, undrained diced tomatoes, and Cajun seasoning. Stir in the softened cream cheese, letting it melt and combine with the liquids to form a flavorful base.

Emulsify Sauce:

Whisk the sauce until completely smooth and emulsified. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Return cooked chicken, tossing to coat for your ultimate Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake.

Assemble Bake:

Combine the cooked penne pasta with the creamy chicken sauce mixture. Transfer everything into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top generously with shredded sharp cheddar cheese for your Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake.

Bake to Perfection:

Bake the assembled Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes. It’s done when bubbly and the cheese is beautifully melted and golden brown on top.

Garnish & Serve:

Let the dish rest for a few minutes after baking to set. Garnish generously with fresh chopped parsley. Serve this ultimate comforting hug in a bowl while warm and enjoy every creamy bite!

How to Store Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

To store leftover Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate promptly. It will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Leaving it out too long can lead to spoilage – don’t do what I did and forget it on the counter overnight!

For make-ahead convenience, prepare the sauce and cook the pasta separately 1-2 days in advance. Store them in sealed containers in the fridge, then combine and bake just before serving for the best results.

Reheat individual portions gently in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore creaminess.

What to Serve with Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

To serve this ultimate comforting hug in a bowl, simply scoop generous portions onto plates straight from the oven. For a beautiful presentation, garnish with extra fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan. It’s perfect when warm and bubbly. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some crusty French bread to enjoy every rich, creamy bite.

I personally love to serve this pasta bake family-style, right in the baking dish on a trivet. It’s perfect for casual gatherings, allowing everyone to easily dig in and enjoy the shared comfort and delicious flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I use low-fat cream cheese in The Ultimate Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake?

No, I don’t recommend it. Low-fat cream cheese often splits and won’t give you the rich, silky texture for this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake. Trust me, I learned this the hard way. Always use full-fat for best results.

→ How do I prevent a lumpy sauce when making this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake?

Ensure your full-fat cream cheese is softened to room temperature before adding it to the sauce. Whisking continuously as it melts is also crucial for a smooth, decadent sauce. I’ve had many lumpy sauces, so take your time!

→ Can I make The Ultimate Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the sauce and cook the pasta 1-2 days in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge. Combine and bake just before serving for the freshest, creamiest results, as I always do.

→ Can I make this Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake gluten-free for my family?

Absolutely! Simply substitute regular penne pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Ensure your Cajun seasoning is also certified gluten-free, as some brands contain additives. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

→ How long do leftovers of this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake last in the fridge?

Leftovers of this comforting pasta bake will stay fresh in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat individual portions gently in the microwave or oven; a splash of broth can restore creaminess. Don’t leave it out!