If you’re craving a hearty, flavorful dish that combines creamy indulgence with a spicy kick, this Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need to try next. The tender bowtie pasta perfectly holds the luscious, cheesy sauce, while the Cajun-seasoned chicken adds vibrant spice and robust flavor that makes every bite a celebration. It’s a perfect blend of comfort and excitement on a plate, sure to become a fast favorite for family dinners or impressing friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredient choices make this dish both accessible and incredibly delicious. Each element from the aromatic garlic to the creamy mozzarella contributes to the rich texture, bold flavor, and inviting color of the final creation.
- 2 cups bowtie pasta (farfalle): The perfect shape to trap sauce and deliver every bit of flavor to your tongue.
- 2 chicken breasts: Provides tender, juicy protein seasoned to perfection.
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning: Packs a warm, spicy punch that defines this dish’s personality.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully creating a creamy, stretchy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Lends indulgent richness and smooth texture to the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a subtle bite.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Used for searing and enriching the sauce with buttery flavor.
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (fresh or dried): Offers a fresh, herbaceous finish and a pop of color.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a touch of subtle heat for balance.
How to Make Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water for the bowtie pasta. Cooking it until al dente ensures the pasta has a slight bite that complements the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Once done, drain the pasta and toss lightly with some butter or oil to keep it from sticking and add a hint of richness.
Step 2: Season the Chicken Breasts
Pat the chicken breasts dry to help the spices stick, then season them generously on both sides with the Cajun seasoning. This step is crucial because it infuses the chicken with bold flavor that will be the star alongside the creamy pasta.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat and add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear each side for 5 to 6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Let the chicken rest after cooking to retain its juicy tenderness before slicing it for serving.
Step 4: Sauté the Garlic
In the same skillet, add a little more butter if necessary, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté it gently until fragrant, which will build the savory foundation for the luxurious cheese sauce.
Step 5: Prepare the Mozzarella Cheese Sauce
Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Slowly whisk in the shredded mozzarella until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. This process creates a beautifully silky sauce that will cling to every bowtie pasta in the dish.
Step 6: Coat the Pasta in Sauce
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the cheese sauce and toss thoroughly so each piece of pasta is luxuriously coated. This ensures every bite is rich and satisfying, with a perfect balance of pasta and sauce.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Slice the rested Cajun chicken and arrange it over the sauced pasta. Garnish the dish with freshly chopped parsley and a dash of black pepper to add freshness and a little extra spice. Now your Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce Recipe is ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is a wonderfully bright, herbaceous garnish that complements the creamy sauce, but you might also sprinkle a little smoked paprika or extra black pepper if you like an additional smoky or spicy touch. A drizzle of olive oil can add a gorgeous glossy finish that elevates the dish’s presentation.
Side Dishes
This creamy, flavorful pasta pairs beautifully with crisp green salads dressed in tangy vinaigrettes to cut through the richness. Roasted or steamed vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans bring color and a fresh contrast. Garlic bread or crusty rolls are great for mopping up the luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant dinner, plate the pasta in neat nests, topping each with sliced Cajun chicken fanned out to show off the golden crust. Serve on warm plates to keep the sauce silky. You could also place the pasta inside individual ramekins and sprinkle with extra mozzarella before broiling briefly for a bubbly, golden crust finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate. Properly stored, this dish will stay fresh for up to 3 days. The flavors may even deepen overnight, making for a delightful second meal.
Freezing
Freezing is possible but not recommended for the pasta with cream-based sauce, as the texture can change and become grainy. If freezing, separate the chicken and sauce from the pasta and freeze individually in airtight containers for better results.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of cream or milk if the sauce thickens too much. Microwave reheating works in a pinch, but stirring every 30 seconds helps maintain creaminess without drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is ideal for catching the sauce, penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine would work well with this creamy Cajun chicken sauce.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat mainly depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. You can adjust the amount or choose a milder version if you prefer less spice. The creamy cheese sauce also softens the heat nicely.
Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese?
Mozzarella is great for meltiness and mild flavor, but you can try cheddar or Monterey Jack for a slightly different taste and still achieve that creamy texture.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply swap the bowtie pasta for a gluten-free alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making this dish easy to adapt.
Can I prepare this recipe for a larger crowd?
Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients accordingly, and consider cooking the chicken in batches to ensure even searing. It’s a great crowd-pleaser any time.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a dish that feels indulgent but comes together so simply, and this Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce Recipe hits that sweet spot. It’s bursting with flavor, comforting, and sure to brighten any meal with its creamy, spicy goodness. Give it a try soon and watch how quickly it becomes a go-to in your kitchen!
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Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2 to 3 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce is a flavorful and comforting dish perfect for a cozy dinner. Tender chicken breasts seasoned with spicy Cajun seasoning are seared to golden perfection and served over al dente bowtie pasta coated in a luscious, cheesy mozzarella cream sauce. Finished with fresh parsley and a touch of black pepper, this recipe blends creamy, spicy, and savory elements for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 2 cups bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for tossing)
For the Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
For the Sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (fresh or dried)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, about 9-11 minutes. Drain the pasta well and toss lightly with butter to prevent sticking.
- Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with Cajun seasoning to infuse the chicken with bold, spicy flavors.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter. Add the seasoned chicken breasts and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and allow it to rest for a few minutes to retain juices.
- Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add more butter if necessary. Sauté the minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant, about 30 seconds to 1 minute, taking care not to burn it.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: Pour the heavy cream into the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer. Gradually whisk in the shredded mozzarella cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, stirring gently to coat the pasta evenly with the creamy cheese sauce.
- Serve: Slice the rested Cajun chicken into strips and place it over the sauced pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of black pepper. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use fresh parsley for a brighter flavor; dried parsley works as well in a pinch.
- For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the Cajun seasoning or sauce.
- To reduce calories, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a lighter cream option, but sauce may be less rich.
- Make sure not to overcook the chicken to keep it juicy and tender.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently to avoid curdling the sauce.
