Go Back
–+ servings

Cheesy Cajun Pasta

Discover the irresistible blend of creamy Alfredo and spicy Cajun in this Cheesy Garlic Chicken Bowtie Pasta. Perfect for any occasion, it's a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that everyone will love.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 550
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pieces boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 10 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (optional, for extra creaminess)
  • to taste Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
  • to taste Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet for cooking the chicken and sauce
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Bowl for tossing the chicken
  • Kitchen tongs for handling the pasta and chicken

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente; drain and reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. Toss chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; sear in olive oil in a skillet until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
  3. Remove chicken and set aside; in the same skillet, add butter and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
  4. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream; bring to a simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Reduce heat to low; add Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses, stirring until melted and creamy.
  6. Combine the seared chicken and cooked pasta into the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
  7. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese; serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 33gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 650mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 300mgIron: 3mg

Notes

To enhance flavor, marinate chicken in Cajun seasoning and olive oil for 30 minutes before cooking. If you want a lighter dish, consider replacing heavy cream with half-and-half. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free pasta. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, reheating with a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Experiment with vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!