Description
How to make a decadent Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake with tender chicken and spicy sauce that your whole family will devour.
Ingredients
Scale
- Main Components:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 16 oz penne pasta
- 8 oz (1 block) full-fat cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Aromatics & Flavor Builders:
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Seasonings:
- 2–3 tbsp Cajun seasoning (depending on heat preference)
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ¼ tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
- Toppings & Garnish:
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Instructions
- 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!
Notes
Whisk sauce until completely smooth for a decadent, silky texture; ensure full-fat cream cheese is softened.
Store leftover pasta bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
Substitute regular penne with gluten-free pasta and use certified gluten-free Cajun seasoning.
Serve warm from the oven, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside a crisp green salad.
Prepare sauce and cook pasta 1-2 days ahead, then combine and bake right before serving.
**Allergy Information:** Dairy, Gluten