Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

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Smoky, spicy Cajun chicken perfectly seared to golden-brown glory, paired with silky mozzarella cheese sauce coating every ribbon of bowtie pasta—this dish is what comfort food dreams are made of. The combination of textures and bold flavors is irresistible: juicy, spice-crusted chicken meets rich, velvety pasta in one incredibly satisfying plate. It’s the kind of dinner that turns a regular evening into something memorable.

Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or just indulging in a weeknight upgrade, Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce is the ultimate answer. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare yet delivers gourmet-level results. The smoky Cajun spices contrast beautifully with the mellow mozzarella, making every bite balanced and crave-worthy.

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

• Flavor Explosion: The bold Cajun spice mix gives the chicken a deep, savory heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy, cheesy sauce.
• Quick Yet Luxurious: Ready in under 45 minutes, but it tastes like a dish from your favorite bistro.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s a dinner party or a picky eater at the table, this pasta pleases every palate.
• Versatile: You can swap proteins, change up the pasta shape, or even add veggies without compromising flavor.
• Cheesy Creaminess: The mozzarella cheese sauce is smooth, stretchy, and comforting—everything a pasta sauce should be.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

To make this flavorful dish come together smoothly, you’ll want to gather the right tools beforehand. Having the right kitchen gear not only saves time but also ensures that each component of the dish—chicken, sauce, and pasta—is cooked to perfection.

Essential Tools and Equipment:

• Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan: This is crucial for getting a beautiful sear on the Cajun-seasoned chicken. Cast iron holds heat evenly, which helps develop that golden, flavorful crust.
• Large Pot: Needed for boiling the bowtie pasta. Make sure it’s large enough to allow the pasta to move freely and cook evenly.
• Tongs or Spatula: Great for flipping chicken without tearing it, ensuring even browning on both sides.
• Whisk: Helps you make a smooth and lump-free cheese sauce.
• Medium Saucepan: Used for preparing the mozzarella cream sauce. A nonstick pan helps prevent burning.
• Colander: For draining the pasta efficiently.
• Meat Thermometer (Optional): To ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F without overcooking.

Being prepped with these tools makes the whole process more enjoyable and helps you cook like a pro in your own kitchen.

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Preparation Tips

• Bring Everything to Room Temperature: Let your chicken sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before cooking. This helps it cook evenly.
• Salt Your Pasta Water Well: It should taste like the sea—this is your only chance to season the pasta itself.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Scoop out a cup before draining. It’s liquid gold for adjusting the consistency of your cheese sauce.
• Dry the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry before seasoning. This helps the Cajun spice mix stick better and enhances browning.
• Shred Mozzarella Fresh: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that don’t melt as smoothly. A fresh block of mozzarella will give you a silkier sauce.

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

Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate this bold and creamy pasta dish. Each ingredient plays a specific role in building flavor, texture, and balance.

For the Cajun Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into cutlets)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

For the Bowtie Pasta:

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• Water for boiling
• Salt (for pasta water)

For the Mozzarella Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1½ cups whole milk (warm)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese (shredded fresh)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for depth)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)

Optional Add-ins:

• 1 cup spinach (stirred into the sauce until wilted)
• ½ cup sun-dried tomatoes (for a tangy contrast)

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Season and Prepare the Chicken

• Pat chicken dry with paper towels.
• In a bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
• Rub the spice mix generously over both sides of the chicken pieces.

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Step 2: Sear the Cajun Chicken

• Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Once hot, add the seasoned chicken.
• Cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until nicely charred and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
• Remove chicken, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.

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Step 3: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente.
• Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

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Step 4: Make the Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

• In a separate saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
• Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
• Whisk in the flour to create a roux; cook for 1 minute.
• Slowly pour in warm milk and cream while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
• Simmer gently until the sauce thickens, about 4–5 minutes.

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Step 5: Add the Cheese and Seasonings

• Stir in the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan (if using), and mix until fully melted and smooth.
• Add black pepper, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt to taste.
• If the sauce is too thick, stir in a bit of reserved pasta water to loosen.

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Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

• Toss the cooked bowtie pasta in the cheese sauce until evenly coated.
• Let it sit on low heat for 1–2 minutes to absorb flavor.

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Step 7: Plate and Garnish

• Plate the creamy pasta on one side of a serving dish.
• Arrange sliced Cajun chicken beside the pasta.
• Spoon any remaining sauce or juices over the chicken.
• Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper.

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Notes

• Balance the Heat: Cajun seasoning can vary in spice levels. If you’re sensitive to heat, use a mild blend or cut the amount in half and add more to taste after cooking.
• Cream Sauce Flexibility: The mozzarella sauce thickens as it cools. If it sits too long, stir in a splash of warm milk or reserved pasta water to restore its silky texture.
• Double the Batch: This dish keeps well and tastes even better the next day. Consider making extra chicken and pasta for easy reheating.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Chicken: Keep a close eye while searing. Overcooked chicken becomes dry and chewy. A meat thermometer is your best friend here—pull it off the heat at 165°F.
• Undersalting the Pasta Water: Bland pasta can drag down the entire dish. Properly seasoned water is essential for flavorful noodles.
• Lumpy Sauce: Avoid dumping cold milk into hot butter and flour. Gradually add warm milk while whisking constantly to keep the sauce smooth.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting properly. Freshly shredded mozzarella gives the sauce its rich, creamy consistency.
• Skipping the Rest Time: Letting the chicken rest before slicing helps the juices redistribute, keeping it tender and juicy.
• Overcrowding the Pan: Sear the chicken in batches if needed to avoid steaming instead of browning.

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

A rich, creamy, and spicy dish like this deserves a few well-paired sides to complement and elevate the meal. Whether you’re aiming for freshness, crunch, or something cozy, these suggestions help round out your plate beautifully.

8 Recommendations:

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Toast
   The perfect tool for scooping up that extra cheese sauce left on the plate—warm, buttery, and loaded with flavor.
2. Simple Arugula Salad
   Light and peppery, a fresh arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette balances out the richness of the sauce.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   Caramelized Brussels sprouts, zucchini, or bell peppers add a nutty, earthy note that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.
4. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine, crunchy croutons, and a bold Caesar dressing deliver a refreshing, tangy bite next to the warm pasta.
5. Steamed Broccoli with Lemon Zest
   A clean, simple veggie side that adds color, fiber, and a bit of zest without overwhelming the main dish.
6. Sautéed Mushrooms
   Deep, umami-rich mushrooms bring a meaty depth and pair beautifully with both the Cajun seasoning and the mozzarella sauce.
7. Cornbread or Buttermilk Biscuits
   For a Southern-inspired touch, these warm, tender breads absorb the flavors of the dish and offer a comforting side.
8. Chilled Cucumber Yogurt Salad
   The cool creaminess of this light salad offsets the Cajun spice and refreshes the palate between bites.

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Storage Instructions

This dish stores surprisingly well, making it great for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep everything fresh and flavorful:

• Refrigerator: Transfer cooled pasta and chicken to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave at 50% power to prevent the cheese sauce from breaking.
• Freezing: Not recommended. The mozzarella cream sauce may separate and turn grainy once thawed.

For best results, store chicken and pasta separately if you anticipate leftovers, then combine when reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 710
• Protein: 45g
• Fat: 36g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Sugar: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Sodium: 960mg
• Serving Size: ~1½ cups pasta + 1 chicken breast
• Diet: Non-vegetarian
• Method: Pan-seared & stovetop
• Category: Dinner/Main Course
• Cuisine: Cajun-inspired American

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different pasta shape instead of bowtie?

Absolutely. Penne, fettuccine, or rotini work well too—just make sure the shape holds onto the creamy sauce nicely.

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2. How spicy is the Cajun seasoning?

It depends on the brand or blend. Some are mild with more herbs, while others pack serious heat. Taste your blend before applying, and adjust quantity to your preference.

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3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the chicken with grilled tofu, roasted cauliflower, or even sautéed mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.

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4. What can I use instead of mozzarella?

Try Monterey Jack for a smooth melt or Fontina for richness. Even a blend of mozzarella and white cheddar adds depth.

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5. Can I prepare the sauce in advance?

You can, but it may thicken as it sits. Reheat gently on the stove and stir in a bit of milk or reserved pasta water to return it to a silky texture.

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6. How do I keep the cheese sauce from getting grainy?

Use fresh shredded mozzarella, and avoid overheating the sauce. Once the cheese melts, remove it from the heat and stir gently.

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7. Is this dish good for meal prep?

Definitely. It holds up well for several days in the fridge. Just store it in airtight containers and reheat gently.

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8. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes, substitute gluten-free pasta and use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in the cheese sauce. Double-check your Cajun seasoning to ensure it’s gluten-free too.

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Conclusion

Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce is the kind of dish that brings bold flavor and creamy comfort together in perfect harmony. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests with something crowd-pleasing, this recipe checks every box: spicy, creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-satisfying. Plus, it’s customizable and quick enough for a weeknight dinner.

Now that you’ve got all the steps, tips, and tricks—go make it yours. One bite, and this pasta might just earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation.

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