Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce

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Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce is that kind of weeknight dinner that tastes like a restaurant treat. This dish brings together the bold spice of Cajun seasoning, tender bites of seared chicken, and the luxurious texture of a velvety garlic cheese sauce. Add to that the fun shape of bowtie pasta, and you’ve got something special without a whole lot of fuss.

What makes this meal so comforting is the way the flavors balance. The Cajun spices offer a smoky kick, but they’re mellowed by the creamy cheese sauce that clings to every piece of pasta and chicken. It’s rich and full-flavored, yet not too heavy. This is the sort of recipe that’s easy enough to pull off on a Wednesday, but satisfying enough for weekend indulgence.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

This pasta recipe is full of personality. The Cajun-spiced chicken adds boldness and depth, while the sauce brings creamy, garlicky comfort. Bowtie pasta is not just cute but holds the sauce in every curve and fold. It’s also super versatile—add bell peppers or mushrooms if you like, or even swap chicken for shrimp. Everything comes together in one pan, making clean-up quick and painless.

What Kind of Cajun Seasoning Should I Use?

For this dish, you can go with a store-bought Cajun seasoning blend or make your own. If you like control over the salt and heat, homemade might be your best bet. Look for blends with paprika, garlic powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne, and black pepper. A smoky note (like smoked paprika) takes this dish to another level. Whatever brand or mix you choose, be sure to taste as you go—some can pack a big punch!

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce

To build all those rich layers of flavor, you’ll need a combination of pantry basics and a few stars of the show. The spices bring the heat, the cheese brings the creaminess, and the pasta holds it all together. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bowtie pasta
• Chicken breast
• Cajun seasoning
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Heavy cream
• Cream cheese
• Parmesan cheese
• Chicken broth
• Salt and black pepper
• Butter

Bowtie pasta is perfect here because its shape traps the sauce so well. Chicken breast provides lean protein that sears beautifully when seasoned with Cajun spices. Garlic and butter are the flavor base, while heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan form the silky garlic cheese sauce. Chicken broth helps to thin the sauce while boosting the savory element, and a touch of salt and pepper brings everything into harmony.

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

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Slice your chicken breast into bite-sized strips, then coat them evenly with Cajun seasoning. In a hot skillet with a bit of olive oil, sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

In a separate pot, cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet used for chicken, melt the butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the heavy cream. Once warmed, add the cream cheese and Parmesan. Stir constantly until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine and Simmer

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add in the cooked bowtie pasta and toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes so the flavors meld together.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra Parmesan.

Serving and Storing Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce

This dish serves about 4 generous portions, making it a great family meal or a smart option for leftovers the next day. When serving, the pasta is best enjoyed hot and fresh, right off the stovetop, where the cheese sauce is at its creamiest.

If you have leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet over low heat and add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help loosen the sauce back to its velvety texture.

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Warm, crusty garlic bread makes the perfect companion. It soaks up every last bit of that luscious cheese sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

Lightly steamed broccoli adds freshness and a pop of green, balancing the richness of the dish.

Caesar Salad

A chilled Caesar salad brings crisp texture and tangy flavor, offering contrast to the creamy pasta.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their nutty, slightly sweet flavor complements the spicy and creamy balance of the Cajun pasta.

Sweet Corn on the Cob

The sweetness of corn pairs well with the heat of Cajun spices. Add a little butter and it’s magic.

Sautéed Mushrooms

Earthy mushrooms cooked in butter and garlic enhance the savory depth of this pasta.

Pickled Jalapeños

If you’re a heat lover, a few slices of pickled jalapeños on the side can take the spice level up a notch.

Simple Arugula Salad

Peppery arugula tossed with lemon juice and olive oil brings a fresh, bright bite to the plate.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If this creamy Cajun chicken bowtie pasta hit the spot, you’re going to want to explore more pasta dishes that bring bold flavor and cozy textures. Here are a few favorites to check out next:

• Creamy Beef and Shells Recipe for a rich, meaty comfort meal.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta when you’re craving something hearty but easy.
• Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce if you’re in the mood for a Philly-inspired twist.
• Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta for the ultimate Alfredo meets savory beef combo.
• One-Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta when you want maximum flavor with minimal dishes.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can whip it up again anytime your cravings kick in.

Did you make any swaps? Add a handful of spinach or maybe tried it with shrimp instead of chicken? I’d love to hear how it turned out.

Join the conversation in the comments below—questions and kitchen creativity always welcome.

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