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–+ servings

Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowties

Discover the perfect blend of creamy, cheesy goodness and bold Cajun spices in this Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowties recipe. Easy to make and sure to impress!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 690
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • to taste Salt and black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Equipment

  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Large skillet for cooking the chicken and sauce
  • Whisk for mixing the sauce
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board for preparing the chicken and herbs

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente; drain and drizzle with olive oil.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat, then add chicken and season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook until golden brown and fully cooked.
  3. Reduce heat and sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds; add chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet to release browned bits.
  4. Stir in heavy cream and softened cream cheese; whisk until smooth, then add mozzarella, Parmesan, and cheddar cheese, stirring until thick and creamy.
  5. Sprinkle in fresh parsley and basil, then return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce.
  6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and stir until evenly coated; adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Let simmer on low for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens; garnish with more cheese and herbs before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 690kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 40gFat: 38gSaturated Fat: 22gCholesterol: 165mgSodium: 950mgPotassium: 550mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 20IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 10mg

Notes

For lighter options, consider replacing heavy cream and cream cheese with Greek yogurt or using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different take. Store leftovers in an airtight container; refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preference; start mild and increase for a spicier dish.
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