Spicy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Creamy Alfredo Sauce
Get ready for a bold, comforting, and irresistibly cheesy dinner with this Spicy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Creamy Alfredo Sauce! Perfect for pasta lovers who enjoy rich, creamy sauces with a kick of spice. This easy chicken pasta recipe features tender Cajun-seasoned chicken, farfalle (bowtie pasta), and a luscious Alfredo sauce loaded with mozzarella, Parmesan, and Velveeta. A hearty, restaurant-quality meal the whole family will crave!
Ingredients:
1 lb bowtie pasta (farfalle)
1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
3 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp minced garlic
1.5 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1½ cups heavy cream
4 oz cream cheese
½ cup Velveeta cheese cubes
¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup reserved pasta water
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
1. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water in a large pot. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente (about 11-12 minutes). Drain and reserve ½ cup of the starchy pasta water.
2. Season the Chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, Italian herbs, salt, and pepper for maximum flavor.
3. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook for 5-6 minutes, flipping once, until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce: Lower heat to medium. Melt remaining 2 tbsp butter, add minced garlic, and sauté for 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream, then add cream cheese and Velveeta, stirring until smooth.
5. Add Cheese: Stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until the sauce is thick and cheesy. Use the reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.
6. Combine: Toss the cooked pasta into the Alfredo sauce, coating evenly. Add back the Cajun chicken and mix gently.
7. Garnish & Serve: Plate the spicy chicken pasta, spoon extra sauce on top, and garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 830 per serving
Perfect for:
Spicy Chicken Alfredo Pasta nights
One-pan pasta dinners
Comfort food cravings
Creamy Cajun chicken recipes
Cajun Chicken Pasta, Spicy Alfredo Pasta, Creamy Chicken Pasta
