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–+ servings

Cajun Cheesy Pasta

Discover the perfect blend of creamy Alfredo and zesty Cajun flavors in this Cheesy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta. A one-pan wonder for any occasion.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick strips
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning plus more if desired
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound bowtie (farfalle) pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cut into cubes
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional
  • to taste Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large Pot for boiling pasta
  • Large Skillet for cooking the chicken and making the sauce
  • Wooden Spoon or Spatula for stirring
  • Cutting Board and Knife for prepping the ingredients
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons for measuring ingredients

Method
 

  1. Fill a large pot with water, add a good pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, drain well, and reserve 1 cup of the cooking water.
  2. Pat the chicken pieces dry, season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.
  3. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium, add remaining butter, and minced garlic. Stir for 1 minute, then pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and add Velveeta cubes until melted. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan.
  4. Adjust the sauce with more Cajun seasoning and black pepper. Add drained bowtie pasta and toss to coat. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes to meld flavors.
  5. Serve pasta onto plates, arrange chicken strips on top or alongside, and garnish with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Calories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 36gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 860mgPotassium: 490mgFiber: 3gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 6mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 15mg

Notes

For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a few dashes of hot sauce to the Alfredo sauce. It adds a nice, subtle heat that complements the Cajun seasoning perfectly.
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