On a chilly evening not long ago, I found myself digging through the pantry looking for dinner inspiration. I had some bowtie pasta, a few chicken breasts, and a craving for something creamy with a little kick. That’s when this Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta came to life, and it’s been a family favorite ever since!
This dish checks every box: hearty, flavorful, creamy, and just spicy enough to keep you coming back for more. It’s the kind of meal that feels both comforting and exciting at the same time. Perfect for a cozy family night, a casual dinner with friends, or even meal prepping for the week ahead, it’s one of those recipes that fits into just about any occasion.
What makes it extra special for me is how quickly it comes together without sacrificing flavor. After a long day, I love knowing that in under 40 minutes, I can whip up something that tastes like it took hours. Plus, watching everyone around the table go quiet (because they’re too busy savoring every bite) is truly the best reward.
If you’re looking for a meal that’s easy, creamy, and full of bold flavor, this one is calling your name!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
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Fast and easy: This is one of those magical dinners that looks fancy but comes together quickly with simple ingredients.
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Flavor-packed: The Cajun-spiced chicken adds just the right amount of heat, while the creamy Parmesan sauce balances everything perfectly.
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Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a weeknight meal, a casual get-together, or a little weekend indulgence, this recipe fits like a glove.
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Family-approved: Even picky eaters can’t resist the creamy sauce, cheesy goodness, and tender pasta. Plus, you can adjust the spice level to suit everyone’s taste.
Once you make this dish, you’ll want to add it to your regular dinner rotation. It’s cozy, satisfying, and full of love in every bite!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Preparation:
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you work on the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. In a bowl, toss the chicken with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper until every piece is nicely coated.
Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet (don’t clean it you want all those flavorful bits!), add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any bits stuck to the pan. Then add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Add the cooked bowtie pasta back into the skillet, tossing it gently to coat it in the creamy Parmesan sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
Variations:
This Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is amazing as is, but it’s also super easy to tweak based on what you have or your dietary needs. Here are a few fun ideas to customize it:
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Make it gluten-free: Simply swap the regular bowtie pasta for a good-quality gluten-free pasta. Most grocery stores have great options now that cook and taste just like traditional pasta.
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Go lighter: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk instead of heavy cream. It won’t be quite as rich, but it’ll still be creamy and delicious.
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Add veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers for an extra pop of color, texture, and nutrition. It’s a great way to sneak in a few greens!
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Vegan twist: If you want a plant-based option, substitute the chicken with tofu or a plant-based chicken alternative. Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and a vegan Parmesan-style cheese to keep it creamy and flavorful.
The beauty of this dish is that it’s so easy to play with. You can turn it into whatever you’re craving while keeping all the cozy comfort at the heart of it.
How to Serve:
When it comes to serving this rich and creamy Cajun chicken pasta, you’ve got some wonderful options to make it feel like a complete meal!
I love serving it with a simple side salad, think crisp romaine, cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sauce. Steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans also pair beautifully with the creamy, slightly spicy flavors of the pasta.
For an even more satisfying meal, you can offer some warm, crusty bread or garlic knots on the side to help scoop up all that delicious sauce! If you’re feeling fancy, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes over each serving really takes it to the next level.
As for beverages, a chilled glass of iced tea, lemonade, or sparkling water with a wedge of lemon keeps things refreshing without overpowering the flavors of the dish.
However you decide to serve it, this dish is sure to be the star of your table, cozy, flavorful, and satisfying to the very last bite.
Recipe Tips
To make your Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta even easier (and tastier!), here are some helpful tips to keep in mind:
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Prep ahead: You can slice the chicken, measure out your spices, and even grate the Parmesan cheese ahead of time. Having everything ready to go will make the cooking process feel effortless.
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Storage tips: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring the sauce back to life and keep it nice and creamy.
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Meal prep idea: If you’re planning to enjoy this for lunch during the week, cook the pasta slightly al dente. It will hold up better when reheated without becoming mushy.
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Customize the spice level: If you or your family prefer a milder flavor, simply use a little less Cajun seasoning. You can always sprinkle extra on top for those who love the heat!
This dish is very forgiving, so feel free to adjust the ingredients to your liking. A little extra cheese or a handful of fresh herbs can always be a great idea!
Cooking Note
To get the absolute best results with this dish, keep these quick tips in mind:
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Don’t overcook the chicken; it can dry out quickly. Just cook until golden and no longer pink inside.
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Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese; it melts smoother and tastes much better than the pre-shredded kind.
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Let the sauce gently simmer, not boil, after adding the cream to avoid curdling.
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Add pasta gradually to the sauce. This way, you can control the amount of sauce versus pasta to your liking.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 780
- Protein: 38g
- Sodium: 820mg
Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta (farfalle) looks beautiful and holds sauce well, you can easily swap it for penne, rotini, or fettuccine. Just use whatever pasta you have on hand, and follow the cooking times listed on the package.
2. How can I make this dish a little healthier?
You can lighten it up by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and cutting back slightly on the cheese. Adding extra veggies like spinach, broccoli, or bell peppers not only adds nutrition but also brings more color and texture to the dish without sacrificing flavor.
3. Can I freeze this Cajun Chicken Pasta?
While you can freeze it, creamy sauces sometimes separate when thawed and reheated. For best results, if you plan to freeze it, undercook the pasta slightly and reheat gently with a splash of cream or broth to help the sauce come back together.
Conclusion
There’s just something incredibly comforting about a big skillet of creamy, cheesy pasta topped with perfectly seasoned chicken. This Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is the kind of meal that makes everyone at the table feel cared for it’s bold, cozy, and made with love.
I often find myself turning to this recipe on busy weeknights when I want something that feels a little indulgent without being complicated. It also shines when served for casual family gatherings, a cozy Sunday dinner, or even a quick meal when friends come over.
What I love most is how customizable it is you can make it spicier, load it with vegetables, or tweak the creaminess to fit whatever you’re craving. It’s simple, satisfying, and feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Give this one a try the next time you’re craving something rich and full of flavor. I promise your family (and your taste buds) will thank you!
Print
Cajun Chicken over Creamy Parmesan Bowtie Pasta
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Ingredients
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside while you work on the rest of the dish.
Step 2: Slice the chicken breasts into thin strips. In a bowl, toss the chicken with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper until every piece is nicely coated.
Step 3: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips to the skillet and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and fully cooked through. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet (don’t clean it you want all those flavorful bits!), add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1–2 minutes until it becomes fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any bits stuck to the pan. Then add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Step 5: Add the cooked bowtie pasta back into the skillet, tossing it gently to coat it in the creamy Parmesan sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir everything together. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 780
- Sodium: 820
- Protein: 38