Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors yet wrapped in a silky, luscious sauce, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta is your new go-to. Combining the smoky, spicy warmth of Cajun seasoning with tender cubes of chicken and colorful bell peppers, all tossed with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, this recipe delivers comfort and excitement in every bite. It’s the kind of dinner that feels indulgent but comes together quickly, making weeknight meals something to look forward to. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining friends, this pasta checks all the boxes: flavorful, creamy, and satisfying.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta has a fantastic balance of spice and creaminess that keeps you coming back for more. The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky kick without overwhelming the dish, while the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a rich, velvety sauce that clings to every bowtie. Plus, the combination of bell peppers and onions adds freshness and a slight crunch, rounding out the texture beautifully. It’s quick to prepare, requires simple ingredients, and the leftovers taste even better the next day. Once you make this, it’ll be a staple in your dinner rotation.

Shopping List

• 8 oz bowtie pasta
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large pot – for boiling the pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan – to cook the chicken and sauce
• Knife and cutting board – for chopping vegetables and chicken
• Colander – to drain the pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula – for stirring the sauce
• Measuring cups and spoons – to measure ingredients accurately

Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta: How It’s Done

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the 8 oz of bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken breasts and season with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook the chicken until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add diced onion, garlic, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of heavy cream into the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Allow it to thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the drained bowtie pasta and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese. Toss everything together, adding a splash of reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and coat the pasta evenly.

Step 6: Season and Garnish

Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional Cajun seasoning if desired. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top for a bright, fresh finish, and serve immediately.

Ingredient Flex Options

• Swap bowtie pasta for penne, rotini, or fettuccine for different textures.
• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, more flavorful bite.
• Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free twist.
• Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra veggies and earthiness.
• Use smoked paprika in place of Cajun seasoning for a milder, smoky flavor.

Chef’s Rationale

The magic of this Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta lies in the balance of bold spices and creamy textures. The Cajun seasoning infuses the chicken with a depth of flavor that’s smoky, spicy, and aromatic, while the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese create a sauce that’s indulgent yet smooth. Using bowtie pasta is a deliberate choice because its shape holds onto the sauce nicely, ensuring every bite is flavorful. The inclusion of fresh bell peppers and onions adds a necessary crunch and sweetness that contrasts with the richness of the sauce.

Cooking the chicken separately and then combining it with the sauce and pasta helps maintain its tenderness without overcooking. The reserved pasta water is a small trick that helps to bring the sauce and pasta together seamlessly, preventing dryness and enhancing the overall mouthfeel.

Storing, Freezing & Reheating

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta keeps well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving for best texture.

Freezing is possible but not ideal for the cream sauce, as it may separate upon thawing. If freezing is necessary, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating slowly.

Quick Q&A

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the bowtie pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta variety. Just be sure to check the cooking time as it may vary.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can replace heavy cream with half-and-half mixed with a little cornstarch to thicken, or use a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a different but delicious flavor.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the amount or use a mild Cajun blend. For extra heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately from the pasta. When ready to eat, reheat the components and combine them just before serving for the best texture.

Similar Recipes

• Sun Dried Tomato Chicken Gnocchi Skillet – Another creamy and flavorful chicken pasta skillet that’s perfect for cozy nights.
• Shrimp And Asparagus Pasta – A lighter seafood pasta option with fresh spring vegetables and a garlic-infused sauce.
• Spinach Artichoke Chicken Soup – A creamy soup that combines tender chicken with spinach and artichokes for a comforting meal.

Final Bite

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta is a celebration of bold, comforting flavors wrapped in a velvety sauce that clings to every piece of pasta and chicken. It’s approachable enough for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for guests. The balance of smoky spices, rich cream, fresh veggies, and cheesy goodness makes it a dish that’s hard to forget. Next time you want a meal that feels both cozy and exciting, this recipe will be waiting in your kitchen.

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