Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

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If you’re craving a dish that combines bold Southern spice with silky cheese comfort, this Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce is a flavor-packed dinner you’ll want on repeat. The tender bowtie pasta soaks up a creamy, cheesy sauce infused with Cajun seasonings, while the juicy pan-seared chicken adds smoky, spicy depth to every bite.

Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this recipe brings restaurant-quality flavor right to your kitchen. With its rich mozzarella base, a hint of garlic, and the heat from Cajun spice, every element complements the next for a mouthwatering experience. Whether you’re a pasta lover, a cheese fanatic, or a spice seeker, this meal checks all the boxes.

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What Kind of Cajun Seasoning Should I Use?

For the best flavor, use a Cajun seasoning that balances paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, cayenne, and black pepper. Store-bought blends are convenient, but if you love customizing, homemade mixes let you dial up the heat or adjust salt levels. Look for one with no MSG and a touch of smoky undertone for a restaurant-style finish.

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Ingredients for the Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): Its ridged surface and butterfly shape make it perfect for holding onto the creamy cheese sauce.

Chicken Breasts: Lean, high-protein, and beautifully browned in Cajun spices, they deliver the hearty center of the dish.

Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend adds bold, zesty Southern heat that defines the dish’s personality.

Mozzarella Cheese: Melts into a lusciously smooth sauce, adding creamy texture and a subtle, stretchy cheesiness.

Heavy Cream: Builds the rich, indulgent base for the sauce, helping all flavors meld seamlessly.

Garlic (Minced): Brings in that aromatic punch that deepens the overall flavor of the sauce.

Butter: Used for searing the chicken and flavoring the sauce, it lends richness and a glossy finish.

Parsley (Fresh or Dried): Sprinkled on top for color and a gentle herbaceous contrast.

Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the bold flavors.

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How To Make the Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside, tossing lightly with butter or olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and coat both sides generously with Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sear the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce the heat to low and add more butter if needed. Stir in minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer. Add the shredded mozzarella cheese gradually, whisking until the sauce becomes smooth and velvety.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta directly into the skillet with the cheese sauce. Toss everything until the pasta is fully coated and the sauce clings to every curve.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Slice the rested Cajun chicken and lay it over the creamy pasta. Garnish with a sprinkle of parsley, a crack of black pepper, and serve hot.

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Serving and Storing This Cajun Chicken Pasta

This dish is best served fresh and hot when the cheese is still gooey and the chicken is juicy. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to revive the creamy texture.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

It varies by brand, but generally has a medium kick. Adjust the quantity or mix your own if you want less heat.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Yes! Penne, rotini, or even fettuccine work well. Just choose something that holds sauce.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

Half-and-half can be substituted, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Skip the chicken and stir in roasted veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini.

Is mozzarella the only cheese that works?

Mozzarella is smooth and stretchy, but a bit of parmesan or fontina adds great depth. A blend can enhance the flavor.

Can I prep this ahead of time?

You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead, but combine with sauce just before serving to keep the texture creamy.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken, check out these savory favorites from the site:

• Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Ricotta Alfredo Pasta
• One Pot Creamy Spicy Cajun Chicken Sausage Mac
• Lemon Garlic Butter Chicken Bites with Savory Parmesan Linguine
• Garlic Parmesan Beef Spaghetti Pasta
• Creamy Garlic Parmesan Tortellini with Chicken and Broccoli

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And let me know in the comments how it turned out! Did you add extra spice or toss in a veggie twist? Did you try a cheese blend?

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You can find more of my daily recipes on Pinterest – Life with Nina.

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