Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta
Indulge in the creamy delight of Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta, a comforting dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a luscious cheese sauce infused with savory garlic and zesty Cajun spices. Ready in just 30 minutes, this flavorful recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings, satisfying both kids and adults alike. Whether served as a hearty main course or a crowd-pleasing potluck dish, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 8 oz Velveeta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 4 cloves garlic
- Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh chopped parsley or chives, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (10-11 minutes). Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
- Toss chicken pieces with olive oil and Cajun seasoning. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat until golden brown (6-8 minutes). Set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Whisk in flour to form a roux.
- Gradually add milk while whisking to avoid lumps. Simmer until thickened (3-5 minutes).
- Lower heat and mix in Velveeta and mozzarella cheeses until melted and smooth.
- Return chicken and pasta to the skillet, tossing to combine. Add reserved pasta water as necessary for consistency.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 640
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 100mg