Save A vibrant comforting casserole featuring tender chicken spicy Cajun seasonings creamy sauce and melty cheese all baked with pasta for a crowd-pleasing meal.
I first made this Cajun chicken pasta bake for a family dinner on a chilly weekend and it immediately became a staple at our table. The creamy cheesy sauce with a spicy kick never fails to impress everyone.
Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: 2 large cut into bite-sized pieces
- Red bell pepper: 1 diced
- Yellow bell pepper: 1 diced
- Red onion: 1 small diced
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Penne or rigatoni pasta: 300 g (10 oz)
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Butter: 1 tbsp
- Heavy cream: 200 ml (¾ cup)
- Milk: 120 ml (½ cup)
- Mozzarella cheese: 100 g (1 cup) shredded
- Parmesan cheese: 50 g (½ cup) grated
- Cheddar cheese: 100 g (1 cup) shredded
- Cajun seasoning: 1½ tbsp plus extra for garnish
- Smoked paprika: ½ tsp
- Salt: ½ tsp
- Black pepper: ¼ tsp
- Chili flakes: ¼ tsp optional for extra heat
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F)
- Cook Pasta:
- Cook the pasta in salted boiling water 2 minutes less than package instructions it will finish cooking in the oven Drain and set aside
- Cook Chicken:
- In a large skillet heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat Add chicken 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning salt and pepper Sauté until browned and cooked through about 6–8 minutes Remove chicken and set aside
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In the same skillet add onions and bell peppers Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened Add garlic smoked paprika and chili flakes if using and sauté for 1 minute
- Make Sauce:
- Reduce heat to medium Pour in cream and milk stirring to scrape up any browned bits Simmer for 2–3 minutes
- Add Cheeses:
- Add ¾ of the mozzarella cheddar and Parmesan to the sauce Stir until melted and smooth
- Combine:
- Return the chicken to the skillet then add the cooked pasta Toss everything together to coat well Adjust seasoning with extra Cajun spice salt or pepper if needed
- Bake:
- Transfer mixture to a lightly greased baking dish Sprinkle remaining cheeses over the top
- Final Bake:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly
- Garnish and Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and a pinch of Cajun seasoning before serving
Save My family loves gathering around the table for this hearty bake especially when served with garlic bread and laughter. It is always a favorite during cozy nights in.
Required Tools
Large skillet or sauté pan medium saucepan for pasta baking dish approx 2 liters wooden spoon chefs knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains milk cheese cream butter and wheat pasta May contain gluten check pasta and possible cross-contamination in spice blends Always double-check ingredient labels for allergens
Nutritional Information
Per serving Calories 670 Total Fat 32 g Carbohydrates 56 g Protein 40 g
Save Enjoy this Cajun chicken pasta bake as a comforting meal that brings bold flavors to your table. You will want to make it again and again
Recipe Guide
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Sauté chicken over medium-high heat until browned but avoid overcooking. Combining it with the creamy sauce during baking helps maintain moisture.
- → Can I use a different type of pasta?
Penne or rigatoni work best as they hold the sauce well, but other short pasta like fusilli or shells can be substituted.
- → What can I add for extra vegetables?
Sliced mushrooms or fresh spinach stirred in before baking enhance both nutrition and texture.
- → How spicy is this dish?
The Cajun seasoning provides a moderate heat; adjust chili flakes to taste for more or less spiciness.
- → What is the best way to garnish?
Chopped fresh parsley sprinkled just before serving adds a bright, fresh contrast to the creamy, spicy flavors.