Description
This Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that transforms a simple weeknight dinner into a satisfying feast.
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 8 ounces bowtie pasta
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with a paper towel. This helps in achieving a nice sear. Generously season both sides of the chicken with Cajun seasoning, ensuring that every bit of the chicken is covered. Allow the chicken to rest for about 10 minutes.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Once the skillet is hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear each side for about 5–6 minutes until they are golden brown and thoroughly cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F). After the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest on a cutting board for a few minutes.
- While the chicken is cooking, 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, reserve half a cup of pasta water and drain the rest.
- In the same skillet used for the chicken (don’t clean it), reduce the heat to medium. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously, and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
- Gradually sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water.
- Once your sauce is perfect, add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and gently toss to coat the pasta evenly with the sauce. Finally, slice the rested chicken into strips and lay it on top of the creamy pasta.
- To garnish, add chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure the chicken is properly seasoned for maximum flavor. Watch the cooking time on the pasta to prevent mushiness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Sodium: 820 mg
- Protein: 38 g