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 on a cool weekend after craving something spicy and comforting. The baked cheese on top gets wonderfully bubbly and golden making it a hit with friends every time.
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
- Pasta: 300 g (10 oz) penne or rigatoni
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Butter: 1 tbsp
- Heavy cream: 200 ml (3/4 cup)
- Milk: 120 ml (1/2 cup)
- Mozzarella cheese: 100 g (1 cup) shredded
- Parmesan cheese: 50 g (1/2 cup) grated
- Cheddar cheese: 100 g (1 cup) shredded
- Cajun seasoning: 1 1/2 tbsp plus extra for garnish
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Chili flakes: 1/4 tsp (optional for extra heat)
- Fresh parsley: 2 tbsp chopped
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. Drain and set aside.
- Cook Chicken:
- In a large skillet heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken Cajun seasoning salt and pepper. Sauté until browned and cooked through about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
- Cook Vegetables:
- In the same skillet add onions and bell peppers. Cook for 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic smoked paprika and chili flakes 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 Cheese:
- Add 3/4 of the mozzarella cheddar and Parmesan. Stir until melted and smooth.
- Combine:
- Return the chicken to the skillet then add the cooked pasta. Toss to coat well. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Assemble:
- Transfer mixture to a lightly greased baking dish. Sprinkle remaining cheeses over the top.
- Bake:
- Bake for 18–20 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish & Serve:
- Garnish with chopped parsley and a pinch of Cajun seasoning before serving.
Save This pasta bake is a weekend favorite in our house especially when everyone wants to dig in family-style. The spicy cheesy goodness brings us all together for seconds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with garlic bread a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete dinner. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or iced tea pairs beautifully with the Cajun spices.
Allergen and Dietary Notes
This recipe contains dairy (cheese cream butter) and wheat (pasta). Always double-check spice blends and pasta packaging if gluten-sensitive.
Storage and Leftovers
Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot adding a splash of milk if it looks dry.
Save This creamy spicy casserole is perfect for sharing with friends or as a comforting weeknight meal. Enjoy every cheesy flavorful bite!
Kitchen Guide
- → How do I prevent the pasta from overcooking in the bake?
Cook the pasta 2 minutes less than package instructions before baking. It will finish cooking in the oven, absorbing flavors without becoming mushy.
- → Can I use different cheeses for this dish?
Yes, mozzarella, cheddar, and Parmesan provide a creamy, melty texture and sharp flavor, but feel free to substitute with similar melting cheeses.
- → What Cajun seasoning alternatives work well here?
A blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and herbs can replicate Cajun seasoning’s bold, spicy profile if you don't have the brand blend.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely. Ingredients like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers enhance flavor and nutrition, complementing the Cajun spices and creamy sauce.
- → How can I adjust the spice level for milder taste?
Reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning and chili flakes or omit the chili flakes entirely for a less spicy dish.
- → What side dishes pair well with this baked pasta?
Garlic bread, a fresh side salad, or steamed green vegetables balance the hearty, creamy flavors of the bake perfectly.