Description
This Indulgent Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken Delight is a tantalizing dish combining tender, spice-rubbed chicken breast with bowtie pasta tossed in a rich and creamy mozzarella sauce. The Cajun spices add a vibrant kick while the silky cream and melted cheese bring comfort and indulgence to every bite, perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) – The star of the dish, its unique shape holds sauce beautifully.
Chicken
- 2 breasts Chicken Breast – Lean protein that soaks up Cajun spices.
- 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning – Adjust based on your spice preference.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil – Used for searing the chicken.
Sauce
- 1 cup Heavy Cream – Base of your creamy sauce.
- 1 cup Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully for a silky texture.
- 2 tbsp Butter – Enhances creaminess.
- 2 cloves Garlic – Infuses flavor when sautéed.
Garnish
- 1 tbsp Parsley (Optional) – Adds freshness.
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Evenly coat the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning and let them rest for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to penetrate.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil. Sear the chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through.
- Rest the Chicken: Transfer the cooked chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for at least 5 minutes to retain juices.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook for 8-10 minutes or until al dente. Drain and reserve some pasta water.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet used for chicken, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add Cream and Cheese: Pour in the heavy cream, stir gently, and mix in shredded mozzarella cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the drained bowtie pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat thoroughly in the creamy sauce. Add reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.
- Serve: Slice the rested chicken breasts and arrange them on top of the pasta. Garnish with parsley if desired for a fresh finish.
Notes
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning quantity according to your spice tolerance.
- Resting the chicken after searing helps keep it juicy and tender.
- If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Use fresh garlic for the best flavor infusion in the sauce.
- Parmesan cheese can be substituted for mozzarella depending on preference.
