Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce

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Golden, smoky Cajun-seasoned chicken meets tender bowtie pasta, all wrapped in a luscious garlic cheese sauce that clings to every twist and fold. The aroma alone will have you hovering in the kitchen, impatiently waiting for the first creamy, cheesy forkful. With a balance of spice, richness, and comfort, this dish is an instant favorite for both casual family dinners and indulgent weekend treats.

This pasta delivers layers of flavor in every bite: juicy, well-seared chicken with that perfect char, the smooth and velvety sauce loaded with garlic and melted cheese, and pasta cooked just right to soak up every drop. Whether you’re serving it with crusty bread or a crisp side salad, it’s a complete meal that satisfies both the soul and the stomach.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment:

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan – Perfect for searing the chicken to get that golden crust while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
• Large Pot – For boiling the bowtie pasta to al dente perfection without sticking.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula – To stir the sauce gently, ensuring the cheese melts evenly and the garlic doesn’t burn.
• Sharp Chef’s Knife – Essential for cleanly slicing the cooked chicken for even distribution over the pasta.
• Colander – To drain pasta quickly without losing heat or texture.

The right tools make a big difference—a heavy skillet, for example, holds heat well for consistent browning, while a silicone spatula ensures you scrape every bit of cheesy goodness into your dish.

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

• Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) – Its shape holds the creamy sauce beautifully in every bite.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Lean protein that takes on Cajun seasoning perfectly.
• Cajun Seasoning – Brings the smoky, spicy, and savory flavors that define the dish.
• Olive Oil – For searing the chicken while adding subtle richness.
• Butter – Creates a silky base for the sauce.
• Fresh Garlic – Aromatic and savory, the backbone of the sauce.
• Heavy Cream – Gives the sauce its luxurious, velvety texture.
• Chicken Broth – Adds depth and balances the richness.
• Cheddar Cheese – Melts into the sauce for that gooey, cheesy pull.
• Parmesan Cheese – Adds salty, nutty complexity.
• Fresh Parsley – For a burst of color and freshness.
• Salt & Pepper – To balance and enhance all the flavors.

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

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry, then coat both sides generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked inside. Remove from skillet and let rest.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 3: Make the Garlic Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in chicken broth and heavy cream, bringing to a gentle simmer. Slowly add shredded cheddar and Parmesan, stirring until fully melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine and Serve

Slice the rested chicken into strips. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Plate the pasta, arrange chicken slices on top, and sprinkle with fresh parsley.

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Serving and Storing the Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce

Serve this pasta hot, right after tossing the bowties in that luscious garlic cheese sauce. Pair with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or warm, crusty bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan or a pinch of Cajun seasoning on top adds a finishing touch.

For storing, let the pasta cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the sauce’s silky texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or fettuccine also work well at holding the sauce.

Is this dish very spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat from the Cajun seasoning, but you can adjust the spice level by adding more or less.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce a few hours in advance. Reheat it gently before tossing with fresh pasta and chicken.

Can I substitute the heavy cream?

Half-and-half works in a pinch, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

What proteins work instead of chicken?

Shrimp, sausage, or even tofu are great alternatives that pair well with the Cajun garlic cheese sauce.

How can I make it lighter?

Use reduced-fat cheese and milk instead of heavy cream, and opt for whole wheat pasta for added fiber.

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Want More Pasta Ideas with a Flavorful Twist?

If you loved this Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce, you might also enjoy these savory pasta favorites from Life With Olivia:

• One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese – Cheesy comfort in every bite.
• Spicy Cajun Garlic Butter Sausage Pasta – A zesty, smoky pasta with a rich butter sauce.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta – Creamy, cheesy, and packed with greens.
• Sweet Spicy Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta – A bold mix of sweet heat and savory.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce – Indulgence in a skillet.

For even more delicious inspiration, visit my Pinterest Life With Olivia where I share recipes daily.

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Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Pin this Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce to your favorite dinner board on Pinterest so you can revisit it anytime.

When you make it, share how it turned out in the comments. Did you stick with chicken, or try shrimp or sausage instead? Did you turn up the Cajun heat or keep it mild?

Your kitchen adventures inspire others, so let’s keep the flavor flowing!

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