Description
The Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce is a delightful dish that merges comfort and flavor in under 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- ½ cup reserved pasta water (optional)
Instructions
- Begin your culinary adventure by bringing a big pot of salted water to a roaring boil. Toss in the bowtie pasta and let it cook according to package directions until it reaches al dente perfection. This usually takes around 8-10 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking. Once it’s just right, drain the pasta in a colander, but don’t forget to save half a cup of that starchy pasta water!
- While the pasta is cooking, pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat and once hot, add the chicken to the pan. Sear for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Once cooked, remove from the skillet and let the chicken rest on a plate.
- In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken, melt the butter over a medium flame. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Now pour in the heavy cream, letting it gently simmer. Gradually introduce the grated cheddar and Parmesan into the mixer, stirring continuously until your sauce transforms into a smooth, rich delight.
- Retrieve your cooked bowtie pasta and add it to the skillet with that luscious garlic cheese sauce. Toss it well, giving each piece a good coating in the creamy indulgence.
- Finally, garnish the pasta dish with freshly chopped parsley and serve piping hot!
Notes
If the sauce seems too thick, use the reserved pasta water to adjust the consistency. Letting the chicken rest before slicing ensures that the juices redistribute, keeping it moist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Protein: 35 g