Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta is a delicious and creamy dish that brings together the bold flavors of Cajun spices and the comforting texture of cheesy pasta. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe offers an irresistible combination of savory chicken and rich cheese sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare this delightful meal, which is sure to impress anyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
• Flavor Explosion: The Cajun seasoning adds a spicy kick that pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese sauce.
• Versatile Meal: Great as a main dish or served alongside a fresh salad, this pasta fits any occasion.
• Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy goodness, even picky eaters will ask for seconds!
• One-Pot Wonder: Most of the cooking happens in one skillet, reducing cleanup time.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the bowtie pasta to get that perfect al dente texture.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and creating a creamy sauce all in one pan.
• Whisk: Helps to blend your ingredients smoothly when making the cheese sauce.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika

For the Pasta

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta

For the Cheese Sauce

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Garnish (Optional)

• Fresh chopped parsley or chives

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, about 10-11 minutes.
3. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and fully cooked.
3. Transfer chicken to a plate and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet used for chicken, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.

Step 5: Create the Roux

1. Whisk in flour and stir for 1-2 minutes until smooth.

Step 6: Add Milk

1. Gradually pour in milk while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
2. Let it simmer for 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Step 7: Incorporate Cheeses

1. Lower heat and stir in Velveeta and cream cheese until melted.
2. Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses; mix until fully combined.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 8: Combine Everything

1. Return cooked chicken and bowtie pasta to skillet.
2. Gently toss everything together until well coated; add reserved pasta water if needed.

Step 9: Serve

1. Serve warm garnished with fresh parsley or chives for extra flavor without hassle!

Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta!

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta is a delightful dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes. Serving it right can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley – Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor.
• Chives – Provides a mild onion flavor and enhances presentation.

Pair with a Salad

• Caesar salad – Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing complements the richness of the pasta.
• Greek salad – A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives offers a refreshing contrast.

Add Bread for Dipping

• Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Dinner rolls – Soft and fluffy rolls can balance the meal’s richness.

Serve with a Side of Veggies

• Steamed broccoli – A healthy option that adds vibrant color.
• Roasted bell peppers – Sweetness from the peppers complements the spices in the pasta.

How to Perfect Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

Achieving the perfect Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your dish:

• Use quality cheese – Higher-quality cheeses melt better and create a creamier sauce.
• Don’t overcook the pasta – Aim for al dente; this helps it hold its shape when combined with the sauce.
• Adjust seasoning to taste – Taste as you go; adjust salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning based on your preference.
• Incorporate vegetables – Adding spinach or bell peppers can elevate nutrition and flavor.
• Reserve pasta water wisely – Use reserved water to adjust sauce consistency without losing flavor.
• Serve immediately for best results – This dish is best enjoyed fresh while it’s still creamy and warm.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

Complementing your Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Breadsticks – Soft, buttery sticks infused with garlic flavor, perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce.
2. Crispy Kale Chips – A crunchy snack that offers a healthy alternative while adding texture to your meal.
3. Coleslaw – The crunchiness and tanginess of coleslaw provide a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
4. Sauteed Green Beans – Lightly sautéed green beans add color and slight sweetness, balancing out the flavors.
5. Caprese Salad Skewers – Cherry tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze bring freshness to each bite.
6. Stuffed Mushrooms – Savory mushrooms filled with herbs and cheese make for an excellent appetizer or side dish.
7. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with veggies offers protein and fiber, complementing the hearty pasta nicely.
8. Baked Zucchini Fries – Crispy on the outside yet tender inside, these fries add a fun touch to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your dish is perfect!

• Not salting the pasta water: Skipping this step can lead to bland pasta. Always salt your boiling water generously before adding the pasta.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden brown color and remove it from heat as soon as it is fully cooked.

• Using cold dairy ingredients: Adding cold milk or cheese can cause your sauce to clump. Always let them sit at room temperature before using them.

• Neglecting to reserve pasta water: This starchy water helps create a creamy sauce. Always set some aside before draining the pasta.

• Skipping the garnishing step: Garnish adds color and freshness. Don’t forget to sprinkle fresh parsley or chives on top before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta.

How can I customize Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color. Feel free to experiment with different cheeses as well!

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While bowtie pasta works great, you can substitute it with penne or fusilli if you prefer a different shape.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.

What can I serve with Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta?

Pair it with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal that everyone will love!

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta is not just delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. You can easily customize it by adding veggies or changing up the cheeses. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta, a dish that perfectly marries bold Cajun spices with rich cheese sauce. This delightful pasta meal is not only quick to prepare—ready in just 30 minutes—but also a crowd-pleaser that will impress family and friends alike. With tender chicken pieces and a luscious garlic-infused sauce, it’s an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve it warm, garnished with fresh herbs, and enjoy the comforting flavors that make this dish truly irresistible.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 3 cups whole milk
• 8 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Cook the bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (about 10-11 minutes). Drain and reserve some pasta water.
2. Toss chicken with olive oil and Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Sauté in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter, add minced garlic, then whisk in flour to create a roux.
4. Gradually add milk while whisking until thickened. Stir in Velveeta, cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth.
5. Combine cooked chicken and pasta into the sauce, mixing well to coat. Serve warm garnished with fresh parsley or chives.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
• Calories: 590
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 30g
• Saturated Fat: 17g
• Unsaturated Fat: 11g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 55g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 105mg