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Creamy Cajun Chicken with Bowtie Pasta Recipe

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A creamy, flavorful dish combining tender Cajun-spiced chicken with al dente bowtie pasta, all smothered in a rich cheese sauce made from cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Perfect for a quick and comforting weeknight dinner that serves six.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Pasta

  • 1 pound bowtie pasta

Chicken

  • 1.5 pounds boneless chicken breast, bite-sized
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper

Sauce

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Boil Pasta: Cook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, then drain and set aside.
  2. Sear Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Toss the bite-sized chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper, then brown the chicken in the skillet until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Build Sauce: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
  4. Add Cheese: Whisk in the softened cream cheese until the mixture is smooth. Then stir in ½ cup of shredded mozzarella and the grated Parmesan cheese, cooking until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
  5. Combine: Add the cooked pasta and seared chicken back into the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta and chicken are evenly coated with the creamy cheese sauce.
  6. Serve: Garnish the dish with fresh parsley and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top before serving hot.

Notes

  • Ensure not to overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to maintain texture when mixed with the sauce.
  • You can adjust the Cajun seasoning to your preferred heat level.
  • Using fresh garlic enhances the flavor but garlic powder can be substituted in a pinch.
  • This dish pairs well with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated; the sauce may thicken and can be loosened with a splash of cream or broth.
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American