Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce

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Craving something creamy, spicy, and utterly comforting? Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce is a dinner that delivers on every front. With a silky cheese sauce hugging every curve of the bowtie pasta and juicy Cajun-spiced chicken layered on top, this dish is weeknight luxury made easy.

The blend of Cajun seasoning with garlic and melting cheese brings restaurant-style richness into your own kitchen. It’s the kind of pasta that earns you second helpings and silent dinner tables—because everyone is too busy enjoying it to talk.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring this dish together effortlessly, here are the essential tools and why they matter:

• Large Pot: You’ll need this for boiling your bowtie pasta evenly without crowding.
• Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan: This is key for getting that perfect sear on your Cajun chicken. Cast iron retains heat beautifully.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring your sauce gently without scratching your pan.
• Whisk: Crucial for ensuring a smooth garlic cheese sauce, free of lumps.
• Meat Thermometer (optional): Helps ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy.

Having these on hand speeds up your cooking process and ensures the creamy, cheesy texture and Cajun spice shine through perfectly.

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Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

• Bowtie Pasta: Its unique shape holds sauce beautifully, making every bite flavorful.
• Chicken Breasts: Lean and juicy, they absorb the Cajun seasoning and sear well.
• Cajun Seasoning: Adds smoky heat and depth to both the chicken and the sauce.
• Garlic: Provides a fragrant backbone to the creamy cheese sauce.
• Heavy Cream: The base of the sauce, giving it a luxurious richness.
• Cream Cheese: Adds thickness and tangy creaminess.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: For that gooey, stretchy melt.
• Parmesan Cheese: Introduces a salty umami edge.
• Butter: Helps cook the garlic and start the sauce with richness.
• Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken to golden-brown perfection.
• Fresh Parsley (optional): A touch of green freshness and visual contrast.

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How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Rub the chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove and let it rest before slicing.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

In a large pot, boil bowtie pasta in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Start the Garlic Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Cream Base

Lower the heat slightly and stir in heavy cream and cream cheese. Whisk until smooth and creamy, letting it simmer gently.

Step 5: Add Cheeses and Seasoning

Add shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese gradually, whisking until melted. Add a pinch of Cajun seasoning for extra depth. Adjust salt if needed.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, stirring to coat well. Top with sliced Cajun chicken and a sprinkle of parsley if using.

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Serving and Storing Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

This dish is best served hot, right off the stove. For a beautiful presentation, layer the pasta into bowls and top with the sliced Cajun chicken. A light dusting of extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley adds the final flair. Serve with garlic bread or a crisp green salad to balance the richness.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk before microwaving or gently warming on the stove to revive the creamy sauce.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of chicken works best?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for even cooking and slicing, but thighs can be used for extra juiciness.

Can I make this dish spicier?

Absolutely! Add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for more heat.

Can I substitute the cheese?

Yes, you can swap mozzarella for Monterey Jack or use a blend of cheeses. Just ensure they melt smoothly.

Is there a dairy-free version?

You can experiment with plant-based cream, cheese, and butter alternatives, though the texture may vary slightly.

What pasta shapes can replace bowtie?

Penne, rotini, or shells all work well, as they catch the sauce nicely.

Can I freeze leftovers?

Cream-based sauces don’t always freeze well. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you freeze, stir well after thawing and reheating.

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Want More Creamy Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If rich, saucy pasta dishes are your thing, you’ll definitely want to explore these:

For a hearty bake, try the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna Recipe — it packs in spicy creaminess with layer after layer of flavor.

Looking for something cozy and slow-cooked? Creamy Crockpot Mac and Cheese will melt perfectly into your dinner rotation.

You might also like the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta if you love bowtie pasta but want a meaty twist.

Craving a touch of veggie comfort? Go for Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup on the side or as a meal on its own.

Or if spice and pasta are your go-to, the Easy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Broccoli brings a similar punch with extra greens.

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Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your comfort food or pasta boards for later. Just hit that Pin button.

If you give it a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out. Did you go extra cheesy? Did you add broccoli or shrimp? Share below and tag your twist.

For more recipes like this, follow me on Pinterest at LadyPlate and find what’s cooking next.

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