Name: Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 ounces penne pasta; 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-size pieces; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 4 tsp Cajun seasoning; 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (for topping); 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp flour; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for sauce); 2 cups milk; Parsley for serving, if desired

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 10 reviews

If you have been searching for a dish that perfectly balances bold, spicy flavors with creamy comfort, this Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Packed with tender, seasoning-kissed chicken thighs, al dente pasta, and a luscious homemade Alfredo sauce, this bake brings warmth and excitement to the table in every bite. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend feast, this recipe delivers irresistible layers of flavor and cheesy goodness that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a silver frying pan filled with small, browned pieces of cooked meat. The meat pieces are uneven in size and scattered across the pan, showing a mix of darker brown crispy areas and lighter cooked sections with a slightly oily sheen. The pan surface has some browned bits and oil spots, showing the meat has been seared well. The handle of the pan extends out to the side, and the whole setup is placed on a white marbled textured surface photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is how simple yet essential each ingredient is to building those deep, satisfying flavors and textures. Every component from the creamy cheese blend to the vibrant Cajun seasoning works together to create a dish that looks as good as it tastes.

8 ounces penne pasta: Holds sauces beautifully with its ridges and tubular shape for perfect bites.
1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs: Offers juicy, tender chicken with rich flavor that’s perfect for absorbing the seasoning.
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil: Adds a light, fruity note and helps in sautéing the chicken to golden perfection.
4 tsp Cajun seasoning: Brings that signature spicy kick and depth essential to this recipe’s personality.
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Melts down into a creamy, tangy layer sealing the bake with indulgence.
Parsley for serving: Adds a fresh, vibrant touch that brightens every mouthful and presentation.
2 tbsp butter: Forms the base of the creamy Alfredo sauce for richness and smoothness.
2 tbsp flour: Essential for thickening the sauce into a luscious, clingy consistency.
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty complexity to the sauce that enhances every ingredient.
1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Incorporated in the sauce to complement the sharpness from the cheddar topping.
2 cups milk: Creates the creamy body of the sauce that binds the bake together luxuriously.

How to Make Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Start by cooking the penne pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente, which means it should be tender but still have a slight bite. This texture is important because the pasta will continue to cook in the oven and you don’t want it to turn mushy. While the pasta cooks, preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to get it nice and hot for baking the final dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Pat the chicken thighs dry and generously sprinkle the Cajun seasoning on both sides — this step is where the bold flavors start building. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook it for 6 to 7 minutes, flipping halfway through, ensuring it develops a beautiful sear and is cooked through. The seasoning crust will lock in juiciness and give that instantly recognizable Cajun flavor that makes this bake so special.

Step 3: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook while stirring for about one minute; this step cooks out the raw flour taste and starts the thickening process. Slowly add the milk while continuously whisking to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the Parmesan and cheddar cheeses until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and lump-free. This homemade Alfredo sauce is the creamy heart of the Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the cooked chicken, then pour in the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything gently to ensure every piece of pasta is lovingly coated in creamy, cheesy goodness with that unmistakable Cajun flair. Transfer the mixture to a greased 13 by 9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded sharp cheddar over the top to create a glorious, melty cheese crust. Bake in your preheated oven for 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese melts fully. For a golden, bubbly finish, feel free to switch on the broiler at the very end — just watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn!

Step 5: Serve Hot and Fresh

Remove your creation from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if you like a pop of color and fresh flavor contrast. Serve immediately while the gooey cheese is still warm, and the spices are at their most vibrant. This dish is pure comfort food magic!

How to Serve Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe

A white rectangular baking dish filled with cooked pasta mixed with pieces of light brown cooked chicken, all covered in melted light yellow cheese that is stringy and soft. Small green herb leaves are scattered on top for color contrast. A wooden spoon is scooping some pasta from the dish, showing a mix of creamy and textured layers with slightly crispy browned bits. The background is a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is all you need to add a lively green touch that balances the rich casserole. You could also add a pinch of extra Cajun seasoning or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright contrast that lifts the creamy layers beautifully.

Side Dishes

Because the Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe is quite hearty and rich, pairing it with something light and fresh works best. Consider a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or steamed seasonal vegetables like asparagus or green beans for that perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try baking and serving individual portions in ramekins for a charming, personalized touch that makes everyone feel special. Alternatively, serve it buffet-style with colorful layers of garnishes on the side so guests can customize their plates with extra cheese or fresh herbs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows all the flavors to mellow and deepen overnight, making for a delicious next-day meal.

Freezing

This pasta bake also freezes well, which is great if you want to meal prep. Pack it in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve the creamy texture and spicy notes.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until heated through, usually about 15 to 20 minutes. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too—just cover the dish to keep moisture in and help the sauce stay creamy instead of drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs?

Absolutely! Chicken breasts will work fine, though thighs tend to stay juicier and more flavorful due to their higher fat content. Just be careful not to overcook chicken breasts during the sauté step.

How spicy is this Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe?

The spice level depends largely on the Cajun seasoning you use. This recipe offers a nice medium heat that’s lively but still approachable. You can adjust the seasoning amount to make it milder or hotter depending on your taste.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can swap penne with other shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or even shells. Just make sure to cook the pasta al dente so it holds its shape through baking.

Is there a way to make the sauce dairy-free?

To make this recipe dairy-free, use a plant-based butter substitute, dairy-free milk like almond or oat, and a suitable non-dairy cheese. The sauce texture will be slightly different but still delicious!

Can I prepare this ahead and bake later?

Definitely. You can assemble the entire bake, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. This makes it a great option for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Cajun Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe enough if you crave a dish that combines bold spices, creamy textures, and cheesy comfort in one beautiful bake. It’s straightforward to prepare yet full of exciting flavors that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Give it a try—you’re going to love how it transforms a simple dinner into a vibrant, soul-satisfying experience.