Description
Cajun Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta is creamy, spicy, and packed with bold flavor. Tender Cajun-seasoned chicken, buttery garlic sauce, bowtie pasta, and parmesan cheese come together in this easy restaurant-style dinner perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
12 ounces bowtie pasta
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional
2 tablespoons chopped parsley
Extra parmesan cheese for serving
Instructions
1. Cook bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente.
2. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain pasta and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Season chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
5. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 6 to 8 minutes until browned and fully cooked.
6. Transfer chicken to a plate and keep warm.
7. Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet.
8. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
9. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir well.
10. Add parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper flakes.
11. Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until the sauce becomes creamy.
12. Return chicken to the skillet.
13. Add cooked bowtie pasta and toss until evenly coated.
14. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
15. Garnish with parsley and extra parmesan cheese before serving.
Notes
Use freshly grated parmesan cheese for the smoothest sauce.
Chicken thighs also work well for extra juicy flavor.
Adjust Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes for your preferred spice level.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.