Name: Louisiana Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Louisiana
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken tenders, breast or thighs; 6 tbsp butter; 1/2 red onion, diced; 10 cloves garlic; 2 crowns broccoli, broken into small florets; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 2 roma tomatoes, diced; 1 lb pasta, farfelle penne or any pasta of your choice; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 1/3 cup chicken stock/broth; 1 cup parmesan, grated; 3 cups shredded cheese, divided colby jack, cheddar, pepperjack; cajun seasoning; salt and pepper to taste; olive oil

Jump to Recipe·5 from 29 reviews

Get ready to fall in love with cozy comfort food! This Louisiana Chicken Pasta Bake is a creamy, spicy, and oh-so-cheesy twist on a Southern favorite. Juicy, cajun-spiced chicken, colorful veggies, and a luscious Alfredo sauce get tangled up with tender pasta, then tucked under a bubbling blanket of melted cheese. Every bite delivers a zesty kick, tons of flavor, and irresistible comfort. If you’re craving something that satisfies the whole table but feels just a little extra special, this is your go-to weeknight bake!

Louisiana Chicken Pasta Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need a long grocery list for magic—every ingredient here plays a crucial part in the taste, texture, and bold color of this Louisiana Chicken Pasta Bake. Let’s break down what makes each item a must-have for this irresistible casserole.

Chicken tenders, breast, or thighs: Pick what you love for juicy, savory flavor. Thighs offer extra richness.
Butter: Adds creamy depth and helps veggies and chicken brown beautifully.
Red onion: Gives a subtle sweetness and pop of color in every bite.
Fresh garlic: Essential for that aromatic, savory foundation.
Broccoli florets: Lend a bright green crunch and sneak in extra nutrition.
Red bell pepper: Brings a touch of sweetness and gorgeous color.
Roma tomatoes: Add juicy acidity for balance and flavor.
Pasta (farfalle, penne, or your favorite): The “canvas” that holds the sauce and flavors together.
Heavy whipping cream: Creates the base for that silky, rich Alfredo sauce.
Chicken stock or broth: Boosts the savory depth and keeps everything moist.
Grated parmesan: For sharp, nutty undertones and creamy texture in the sauce.
Shredded cheese (Colby Jack, cheddar, pepperjack, or a blend): Melts into bubbly, golden perfection on top.
Cajun seasoning: The superstar spice blend that brings the signature Louisiana flair.
Salt and pepper: Don’t forget these for balanced seasoning throughout.
Olive oil: Keeps chicken juicy and veggies glistening in the skillet.

How to Make Louisiana Chicken Pasta Bake

Step 1: Prep and Saute the Veggies

Crank up your oven to 375 degrees while you prep! Start by seasoning your chicken generously with cajun spice then let it sit for about 20 minutes—this warms it up to room temp and gets the flavors working. Heat a deep skillet and melt butter with a spoonful of garlic, then toss in your red onion, peppers, and broccoli. Give everything a quick sauté (just 3 to 5 minutes) so your veggies are vibrant and just kissing the heat—no mush here! Scoop them into a big bowl and keep them handy.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Using that same skillet, add olive oil and lay your chicken pieces down for a sizzle-packed sear, about 3 minutes per side. Drop in a little more butter and the remaining garlic, letting the chicken soak up all that flavor. Once done, transfer both chicken and any golden pan juices into the veggie bowl, tent it all with foil, and let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes (hello, juicy chicken!). Then slice the chicken and pop it back in the bowl.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

Time for the sauce that’ll have everyone swooning! Melt more butter in your skillet and gently cook up the remaining garlic, soaking up all the flavor left from the chicken. Add your diced tomatoes, letting them get soft and saucy as you lightly mash with a fork. Pour in the cream and chicken stock, season with cajun spice, salt, pepper, and lots of parmesan. Let it bubble and thicken slightly—smells amazing, right? Meanwhile, boil your pasta on the side until it’s al dente perfection.

Step 4: Bring It All Together and Bake

Add the drained pasta, your chicken, and veggies right into the skillet with your creamy sauce. Stir in half the shredded cheese to make it wonderfully gooey. Transfer it all into a greased 9×13 baking dish, then shower the top with the rest of your cheese. For extra flavor (and wow factor), finish with a sprinkle of cajun seasoning or paprika on top. Slide it into your oven for 15–20 minutes until golden and bubbling—the best part is waiting for that cheesy crust to form!

How to Serve Louisiana Chicken Pasta Bake

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or green onion will make your Louisiana Chicken Pasta Bake really pop on the plate. If you like a little heat, a dash of extra cajun seasoning or some sliced jalapeños also look (and taste!) fantastic as a finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Serve up big, melty scoops of this pasta bake with warm breadsticks, fluffy Texas toast, or even a crusty baguette—perfect for mopping up any extra sauce! A fresh garden salad with zippy vinaigrette adds a crunchy, refreshing contrast to all the creamy richness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try portioning the Louisiana Chicken Pasta Bake into individual ramekins for dinner-party flair, or serve it straight from the skillet family-style at the table for maximum comfort-food coziness. To brighten things up, garnish with colorful veggies and lemon wedges around the edges for a fresh, eye-catching look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Pack any leftover Louisiana Chicken Pasta Bake into airtight containers and pop them in the fridge. It’ll stay just as tasty for 3 to 4 days—great for quick lunches or a bonus weeknight dinner!

Freezing

Want to save a batch for later? You can freeze your Louisiana Chicken Pasta Bake before or after baking. Assemble everything, let it cool, then wrap tightly in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

For the best texture when reheating, add a splash of chicken stock or cream along with a little butter to your serving and warm gently in the microwave or oven. Stir halfway through to keep everything creamy and prevent the pasta from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta for this bake?

Absolutely! Louisiana Chicken Pasta Bake works with just about any pasta you have on hand—penne, farfalle, rotini, or even rigatoni. Just aim for a shape that holds sauce well and doesn’t get mushy.

What’s the best cheese combo for the top?

This dish loves a blend—try Colby Jack for creaminess, cheddar for sharpness, and a bit of pepperjack if you love a kick. Parmesan in the sauce adds extra savory depth too.

How spicy is this Louisiana Chicken Pasta Bake?

The level of heat is totally in your hands! Cajun seasoning brings warmth and depth, but you can use less or more depending on your preference, and taste as you go. For extra heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or hot sauce on top.

Can I lighten up the recipe?

Definitely! Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or evaporated milk and use reduced-fat cheese if you’d like. It’ll still be comforting and full of that signature Louisiana Chicken Pasta Bake flavor.

Is this recipe good for making ahead?

Yes! You can assemble the Louisiana Chicken Pasta Bake up to a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Bake it when you’re ready—just add a few extra minutes if it’s going into the oven cold.

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to bring a little Southern warmth, a lot of comfort, and plenty of cheesy goodness to your dinner table, give this Louisiana Chicken Pasta Bake a try. Every pan is packed with color, flavor, and those comforting vibes we all crave—don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular in your kitchen!