Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce

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Golden, seared Cajun-spiced chicken breast slices rest on a bed of tender bowtie pasta, all coated in a rich, velvety garlic cheese sauce. The contrast of spicy and creamy, the smoky char of the chicken, and the gooey, stringy cheese pulls in every bite make this dish an absolute showstopper. The sauce clings lovingly to every twist and turn of the bowtie pasta, delivering flavor in every forkful.

This isn’t your average pasta dinner. It’s bold, comforting, and indulgent—a perfect balance between heat and creaminess. Ideal for weeknight dinners, date nights, or when you just want to treat yourself to something that tastes like it came from a restaurant. Whether you’re a fan of creamy pasta or crave spicy dishes, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce will win you over from the very first bite.

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

• Flavor Explosion: Spicy Cajun chicken meets creamy garlic-infused cheese sauce. It’s savory, spicy, and incredibly satisfying.
• Comfort Food Redefined: Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly seasoned, this pasta dish is everything you want when you need food that feels like a hug.
• Easy Yet Impressive: Looks gourmet, tastes luxurious, but it’s surprisingly easy to make at home with everyday ingredients.
• Customizable Heat Level: Love spice? Add extra Cajun seasoning. Prefer it mild? Tone it down. You’re in control.
• Cheese Lover’s Dream: The garlic cheese sauce is thick, rich, and gooey—ideal for those who can’t resist melty, stretchy cheese.
• Great for Leftovers: Reheats well and somehow tastes even better the next day.
• One-Pan Option: You can make most of it in a single skillet—less cleanup, more flavor.
• Crowd Favorite: Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish never fails to impress.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this mouthwatering Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce, having the right tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need and why each item matters:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is where most of the magic happens. You’ll sear the chicken and build your sauce here, so choose one that’s heavy-bottomed and distributes heat evenly.
• Large Pot for Boiling Pasta: Bowtie pasta (farfalle) needs space to move and cook evenly. Use a wide pot with plenty of salted water.
• Tongs: Essential for flipping the chicken while getting that perfect sear without breaking the crust.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife & Cutting Board: For cleanly slicing the chicken breasts into even strips after they’ve rested.
• Whisk: Necessary for creating a lump-free garlic cheese sauce that’s smooth and velvety.
• Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accuracy matters, especially for balancing the spice and cream levels.
• Colander: For draining the pasta quickly without overcooking it.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Gentle on your cookware and perfect for stirring without scratching.

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Preparation Tips

• Use Room Temperature Chicken: Let the chicken sit out for 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking and better searing.
• Season Generously: Cajun seasoning brings this dish to life. Don’t be shy—rub it into the chicken well and season the sauce as needed.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Slightly firm pasta holds up better when mixed with the thick cheese sauce and prevents a mushy final texture.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Scoop out half a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining—it’s liquid gold for loosening up your sauce if needed.
• Let Chicken Rest Before Slicing: Resting for 5 minutes keeps the juices locked in, resulting in tender and juicy slices.
• Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. For the creamiest sauce, shred fresh cheese yourself.
• Low and Slow for Sauce: Don’t rush the cheese sauce. Keep the heat low and add cheese gradually to avoid graininess.
• Finish with Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of finely chopped parsley adds a fresh note and visual contrast to the rich, creamy sauce.

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

This dish is all about bold flavor and creamy comfort. Here’s everything you’ll need to make it come together beautifully:

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For the Cajun Chicken:

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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For the Bowtie Pasta:

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• Water and salt for boiling

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For the Garlic Cheese Sauce:

• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups whole milk (warm)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 ½ cups freshly shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup freshly shredded mozzarella cheese
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)

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Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh chopped parsley
• Extra Parmesan
• Crushed red pepper flakes

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

Follow these clear steps to bring this irresistible pasta dish to life:

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Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions (usually 10–11 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining. Set pasta aside.

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Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry. Rub them thoroughly with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), and a touch of salt and pepper.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side or until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temp should reach 165°F / 74°C).
Transfer the chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Roux

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 2 tablespoons of butter.
Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for 30–45 seconds until fragrant (do not brown).
Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a light roux.

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Step 4: Build the Creamy Cheese Sauce

Slowly pour in warm milk while whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Follow with the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Lower the heat and add shredded cheddar, mozzarella, and Parmesan in small batches, whisking between each addition until fully melted and smooth.
Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and a pinch of cayenne if desired.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained bowtie pasta directly into the cheese sauce. Stir gently to coat every piece evenly.
If the sauce is too thick, loosen it with a splash or two of the reserved pasta water.

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Step 6: Add the Chicken and Garnish

Top the pasta with the sliced Cajun chicken.
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, or crushed red pepper flakes for a finishing touch.

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Notes

• Balance the Heat: Cajun seasoning blends vary in spice level. Taste your seasoning blend first and adjust the amount to suit your preferences.
• Customize the Cheese Blend: You can switch up the cheeses! Try Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or add a bit of gouda or pepper jack for complexity.
• Make It a One-Pan Meal: After boiling the pasta, you can build the entire dish in one deep skillet for fewer dishes and richer flavor layering.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Chicken: This is the fastest way to dry, tough meat. Use a meat thermometer and remove the chicken as soon as it hits 165°F (74°C).
• Using Cold Milk or Cream in the Sauce: Adding cold dairy to a hot roux can cause clumping. Always warm the milk slightly before adding.
• Not Stirring the Cheese Gradually: Dumping all the cheese in at once can lead to a grainy sauce. Add it slowly over low heat, whisking until each batch melts completely.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: That reserved pasta water contains starch and helps adjust the consistency of the cheese sauce perfectly.
• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: These contain anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Always use freshly grated cheese for the best texture.
• Crowding the Pan While Searing Chicken: If you’re doubling the recipe, sear in batches to keep the heat high and achieve a proper crust.
• Cooking Sauce Too Fast: High heat can split or burn the cheese sauce. Keep it low and steady for a creamy finish.
• Forgetting to Rest the Chicken: Slicing too soon will cause all the juices to run out, resulting in dry chicken slices. Let it sit at least 5 minutes.

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

This rich, creamy, and spicy pasta dish shines on its own—but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your entire meal. Whether you’re hosting or just treating yourself to a deluxe dinner, these pairings offer contrast, balance, and extra indulgence.

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8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks
   The ultimate classic! Use them to scoop up every bit of that garlic cheese sauce.
2. Simple Arugula Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette
   The peppery bite of arugula with a citrusy dressing helps cut through the richness of the pasta.
3. Oven-Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus
   Crisp, caramelized veggies add texture and balance out the creamy base.
4. Crispy Fried Zucchini Chips
   Lightly breaded and fried zucchini makes a tasty, crunchy contrast without overpowering the dish.
5. Tomato Basil Bruschetta
   Offers acidity and freshness that pairs wonderfully with the cheesy, garlicky sauce.
6. Caesar Salad with Crunchy Croutons
   A creamy Caesar with tangy dressing matches the bold Cajun flavors without clashing.
7. Corn on the Cob with Chili-Lime Butter
   A side that echoes the spice of the Cajun seasoning while adding sweetness and juiciness.
8. Sparkling Lemon or Lime Water
   Not a food—but a palate cleanser like citrus-infused sparkling water can refresh your taste buds between creamy bites.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), this Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce stores beautifully with a few simple steps:

• Refrigerator: Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of milk or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and revive that creamy texture.
• Microwave Option: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each. Again, add a spoonful of milk or cream to help emulsify the sauce.
• Freezer: While technically possible, freezing the cheese sauce may alter its texture when thawed. Not recommended unless absolutely necessary.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)

Note: Values are approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.

• Calories: 720
• Protein: 41g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fat: 39g
• Saturated Fat: 20g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Cholesterol: 165mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 960mg
• Serving Size: ~1½ cups

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Frequently Asked Questions

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

Absolutely. Penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work well with creamy sauces and hold up nicely under the weight of the chicken and cheese.

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2. What’s the best substitute for Cajun seasoning?

If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, use a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme. Adjust the heat to your liking.

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3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the chicken and sauté some mushrooms, zucchini, or even roasted cauliflower instead. The cheese sauce and pasta are already meat-free.

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4. How can I make the sauce thinner or lighter?

Use more milk and less cream to reduce richness. For a thinner consistency, stir in a bit more reserved pasta water until the sauce reaches your preferred texture.

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5. Will this recipe work with pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Yes, it’s a great shortcut! Just toss the shredded or sliced cooked chicken with Cajun seasoning and warm it in the sauce before serving.

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6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Not as written—but you can easily make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta and substituting the flour in the roux with gluten-free flour or cornstarch.

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7. Can I make it ahead of time for meal prep?

Yes, just store the sauce and pasta separately if possible. Reheat slowly and add a splash of milk to bring back creaminess.

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8. How spicy is this dish?

It’s medium-spicy depending on your Cajun seasoning. You can reduce the heat by using less Cajun spice or omitting cayenne and red pepper flakes.

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Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce is the perfect mashup of bold and comforting—where spicy meets creamy and pasta meets indulgence. It’s rich enough for a cozy night in but quick enough for a weeknight dinner. With a little prep and a lot of flavor, this dish is sure to become a repeat favorite in your kitchen. Whether you love spice or cheese (or both), this recipe checks all the right boxes.

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