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Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake

Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake: Cozy & Creamy Delight

This Cajun Cream Cheese Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting and flavorful one-pan meal that's ready in under 45 minutes.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1 lb Chicken Substitute with cooked vegetables or chickpeas for a vegetarian version.
  • 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning Adjust based on desired spice level.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil Choose extra virgin for enhanced flavor.
For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Penne or Rotini Pasta Cook until al dente to avoid overcooking in the oven.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Onion Use yellow or white onion for best results.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Swap with green bell pepper if desired.
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic is recommended for the best results.
For the Creamy Sauce
  • 8 oz Cream Cheese Can be replaced with low-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Substitute half-and-half for a lighter option.
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth Low-sodium broth can be used for a healthier choice.
  • 1 cup Cheddar Cheese Mix in mozzarella or pepper jack for a twist.
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan Cheese Use fresh grated for the best flavor.
For Garnishing
  • 2 tbsp Chopped Parsley Sprinkle on top before serving.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • large skillet
  • 9x13 inch baking dish

Method
 

Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add your penne or rotini pasta. Cook until al dente according to package instructions, usually about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet over medium heat, heat a splash of olive oil. Add the seasoned chicken pieces and cook for about 5-7 minutes until golden brown. Set aside on a plate.
  4. In the same skillet, add more olive oil and toss in the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
  5. Lower the heat and stir in the cream cheese until melted. Gradually add the heavy cream and chicken broth, whisking continuously for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add the shredded cheddar and grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring until melted and creamy.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently fold in the drained pasta until well coated in the creamy sauce.
  8. Pour the pasta mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
  10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 30gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 95mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 500mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 2mg

Notes

This dish can be made vegetarian by substituting chicken with mixed vegetables or chickpeas. Adjust cajun seasoning to your taste.

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