Bowtie Pasta with Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

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This Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce brings together a satisfying mix of smoky spice and creamy comfort. It’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and satisfies cravings in one big, saucy, cheesy bite. The Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a bold kick, while the creamy mozzarella sauce mellows things out with rich, cheesy smoothness.

Whether you’re looking to impress dinner guests or just want to elevate a weekday meal, this recipe delivers big flavor without requiring a long ingredient list or hours in the kitchen. With crispy pan-seared chicken, tender bowtie pasta, and a silky, flavorful sauce, it’s a dish you’ll want to come back to over and over again.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather the right kitchen tools to make the process seamless:

• Cast Iron or Nonstick Skillet – Ideal for achieving that perfect golden sear on the Cajun chicken. The even heat distribution ensures the chicken cooks through while locking in flavor.
• Large Pot – Used to boil the bowtie pasta. Make sure it’s big enough so the pasta doesn’t clump together.
• Colander – Essential for draining the pasta quickly without losing any of those precious bowties.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board – For slicing the chicken evenly, ensuring consistent cooking.
• Whisk – Helps blend the cheese sauce to creamy perfection, ensuring no lumps.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups – Precision is key with seasonings and cheese; too much can overpower, too little and it falls flat.

Having everything prepped and ready keeps this recipe smooth and stress-free from stove to table.

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

• Chicken Breast or Tenderloins – The base protein that soaks up all the Cajun spices. Juicy and flavorful when seared.
• Bowtie (Farfalle) Pasta – These pasta shapes are ideal for catching sauce in their folds, making every bite flavorful.
• Cajun Seasoning – Adds bold, smoky, spicy flavor that defines this dish.
• Mozzarella Cheese – Melts into a creamy, stretchy sauce that’s mild and comforting.
• Heavy Cream – Provides the silky base of the sauce, adding richness and body.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds a nutty, salty depth that complements the mozzarella.
• Garlic (Minced) – Builds aromatic depth and enhances the savory layers of the sauce.
• Olive Oil or Butter – Helps sear the chicken and sauté the garlic.
• Salt & Pepper – Enhances all the other flavors.
• Parsley (Fresh or Dried) – For garnish and a subtle fresh touch.

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How To Make the Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season both sides of your chicken breasts or tenderloins generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked through (about 5–6 minutes per side depending on thickness). Remove and let rest, then slice into strips.

Step 3: Make the Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium and add a touch more butter or oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, whisking continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet and toss well to coat each piece in the cheese sauce. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to thin the sauce.

Step 5: Serve

Plate the cheesy bowtie pasta and top with slices of the Cajun chicken. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and a final pinch of Cajun seasoning for extra flair.

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Serving and Storing Your Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

This dish is best served hot, right after tossing the pasta in that luscious mozzarella sauce. The chicken remains juicy, and the sauce stays creamy and smooth. Garnish with extra parsley and a light dusting of Parmesan for added texture and visual appeal.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life and warm over medium heat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works great for holding onto the sauce, penne or rotini are also fantastic choices.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream cheese. Keep in mind the sauce may be slightly less rich.

Can I make it spicier?

Definitely! Just increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce.

Can I prep the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the chicken up to a day in advance. Store it in the fridge and warm it just before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?

A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables make great sides. Garlic bread is also a favorite pairing.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

It’s not ideal—cream-based sauces may separate when frozen and reheated. Fresh is best, but refrigerated leftovers still taste great within a few days.

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Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you loved this creamy Cajun chicken pasta, check out these other flavorful combinations from Life With Olivia:

• Sweet Spicy Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta for a sticky, bold twist.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce if you enjoy deep garlic flavor.
• One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta with sweet heat and smoky sausage.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta for comfort in every bite.
• One Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese for a baked cheesy upgrade.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up with extra Cajun heat? Did you try a different pasta shape?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook more confidently!

More daily inspiration can always be found on my Pinterest board: Life With Olivia

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