Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

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Bowtie pasta is already a favorite for weeknight dinners, but when it’s paired with bold Cajun-spiced chicken and a silky mozzarella cheese sauce, it becomes something truly special. This dish is warm, comforting, and just the right amount of indulgent. The creamy texture of the cheese sauce wraps around every piece of pasta, while the Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a smoky kick that balances everything beautifully.

Whether you’re feeding your family on a busy night or trying to impress at a weekend gathering, this Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce delivers comfort and flavor in equal measure. It’s a one-skillet meal that feels like a restaurant dish, but you can whip it up in under an hour with pantry staples.

Why You’ll Love This Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

This dish brings together everything we love about hearty pasta recipes. The bowtie pasta holds onto the cheesy sauce perfectly, making every bite rich and flavorful. The Cajun-spiced chicken adds a little heat and tons of flavor, while the mozzarella cheese sauce keeps it creamy and smooth. It’s comforting yet exciting, perfect for anyone who enjoys a little spice with their cheese.

What Kind of Cajun Seasoning Should I Use?

You can go store-bought for ease or make your own if you prefer to control the heat. Most Cajun blends include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Look for a blend with a flavor profile you love, whether smoky, spicy, or mild. And if you’re sensitive to heat, just reduce the cayenne a touch and you’re good to go.

Ingredients for the Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

To create this rich and flavorful dish, you don’t need a long list of fancy ingredients. Each component plays a key role in building layers of flavor and texture, starting with a simple bowtie pasta base and ending in a decadent cheese sauce. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bowtie pasta
• Chicken breast
• Cajun seasoning
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic cloves
• Heavy cream
• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley

The bowtie pasta gives the dish structure and captures the sauce in every fold. Chicken breast is a lean protein that soaks up the Cajun flavor beautifully. The Cajun seasoning is essential for adding smoky, spicy notes that set the tone. Olive oil and butter help sear the chicken and form a flavorful base. Minced garlic cloves bring bold aroma, while heavy cream adds richness. Melted mozzarella cheese creates that creamy, gooey texture we crave, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese adds depth. Season with salt and black pepper to balance the flavors, and top with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.

How To Make the Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Build the Sauce Base

In the same skillet used for the chicken, lower the heat and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Simmer for a few minutes to thicken slightly.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

Stir in shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, whisking until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add it back to the skillet. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well coated in the cheese sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top before serving. Serve warm and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness.

How to Serve and Store Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

This recipe makes a generous meal that comfortably feeds 4 to 6 people, making it perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in with guests. Serve it straight from the skillet while it’s hot and creamy, and don’t forget that sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for added freshness.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm the pasta in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to restore its creamy consistency. It can also be microwaved, but be sure to stir halfway through to heat evenly.

What to Serve With Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce?

Garlic Bread

The garlicky crunch of toasted bread pairs beautifully with the rich sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

Adds a bit of green freshness and balances the creamy and spicy elements.

Caesar Salad

A classic side salad with crisp romaine, tangy dressing, and crunchy croutons is a refreshing contrast.

Grilled Asparagus

Slightly charred asparagus brings a smoky depth that works well with Cajun flavors.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Earthy and crispy sprouts add a hearty complement.

Caprese Skewers

Tomato, basil, and mozzarella on a stick offers a cool and vibrant counterpoint.

Sweet Cornbread Muffins

For a Southern twist, serve with cornbread muffins for sweetness against the heat.

A Glass of Chardonnay

Creamy pasta and chilled white wine? Yes, please. The acidity helps balance the richness.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce, then you’re in for a treat with these other flavorful dishes from Mia Plates:

• Try our rich and savory Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a comforting twist on a classic.
• The Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta is perfect when you’re short on time but big on flavor.
• Get cozy with the cheesy indulgence of Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce.
• For a smoky one-pot wonder, don’t miss our One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta.
• And if you love Alfredo, you’ll adore our Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you use more Cajun spice or go extra creamy? Did you swap in a different cheese?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook with confidence.

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