Introduction

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake is a comforting, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and perfectly cooked pasta all smothered in a rich, spicy cream sauce. It’s baked until bubbly and golden, making it a perfect family dinner or easy meal prep option.

A white round baking dish is filled with baked penne pasta topped with melted white cheese that covers the pasta in an uneven layer. Scattered on top are browned bits of ground meat that add a rich dark brown color, along with whole cherry tomatoes in bright red and yellow hues. Fresh green chopped herbs are sprinkled over the surface, adding a fresh contrast against the warm colors of the pasta and cheese. The dish sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

12 ounces penne pasta
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 yellow bell pepper, diced
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
Step 4: Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, approximately 3-4 minutes.
Step 5: Stir in the cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Step 6: Reduce the heat and pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
Step 7: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet and mix until the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. Add salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to taste.
Step 8: Transfer the pasta mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses evenly on top.
Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 10: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or sliced jalapeños with the vegetables.
Substitute penne with rigatoni or fusilli for a different texture.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
Swap chicken breasts for thighs for a juicier result.
Add cooked and crumbled bacon on top before baking for smoky flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

How to Serve

A round white bowl holds baked pasta with three visible layers: a base layer of creamy, pale yellow pasta pieces, a middle layer of melted cheese browned in spots creating a golden crust, and a top layer of bright red and yellow cherry tomatoes scattered evenly. Fresh green parsley is sprinkled over the entire dish with a larger bunch in the center, adding vibrant contrast. The bowl is placed against a soft-focus background with a white marbled texture below. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Ensure the Cajun seasoning blend you use is also gluten-free.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of butter as a substitute, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Coconut cream is an option for a dairy-free alternative.