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Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce

Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce


  • Author: Emily Wilkinson
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients You’ll Need

    • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

    • 2 tablespoons olive oil

    • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

    • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

    • 1 pound bowtie pasta (farfalle)

    • 4 tablespoons butter

    • 4 cloves garlic, minced

    • ¼ cup all-purpose flour

    • 3 cups whole milk

    • 1 cup chicken broth

    • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened

    • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

    • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

    • Optional: Red pepper flakes for extra heat


Instructions

Preparation

Step 1: Toss the chicken with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika in a large bowl until fully coated. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 6–8 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.

Step 2: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, about 10–12 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in the flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to form a roux.

Step 4: Slowly whisk in the milk and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook 3–5 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Lower the heat and stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth. Add 1½ cups mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 6: Toss the cooked pasta and chicken into the sauce until evenly coated. Transfer everything to an oven-safe dish, sprinkle remaining mozzarella on top, and broil for 2–3 minutes until bubbly and golden.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes

Nutrition

  • Calories: 750
  • Sodium: 900
  • Protein: 50