This Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet is a fun and tasty dish that combines tender chicken, colorful veggies, and bowtie pasta in a zesty sauce. It’s quick to make and perfect for busy nights!
Honestly, who can resist that spicy kick? I love how it brings a party to my plate! Plus, it’s all made in one pan—less mess for me to clean up later! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bowtie Pasta: Bowtie or farfalle is perfect for this dish due to its fun shape that holds onto sauce well. If you need a substitution, penne or fusilli would also work nicely!
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for quick cooking. You can replace it with rotisserie chicken for ease or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice blend gives the dish its signature flavor. If you don’t have any, try using a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and oregano. You can adjust to your spice preference!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Just keep in mind it might change the flavor a bit.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan is best for melting, but pecorino Romana or nutritional yeast can be good substitutes for a non-dairy option!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken perfectly is key for this recipe. Here’s the best way to do it:
- Start with even-sized pieces of chicken to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Heat the skillet on medium-high. Don’t overcrowd the pan; this ensures that the chicken sears nicely.
- Use Cajun seasoning right on the chicken to build flavor. Let it brown for about 5-7 minutes until it’s cooked through.
- To check doneness, cut into a piece—there should be no pink inside.
By following these steps, you’ll have tender chicken that’s full of flavor for your pasta dish!
How to Make Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta:
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
For the Chicken and Vegetables:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped
Estimated Time:
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 20 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 35 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and rewarding meal to whip up for any night of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the bowtie pasta and cook it until al dente according to the package instructions (usually about 8-10 minutes). After cooking, drain the pasta and set it aside for later.
2. Brown the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken pieces along with a sprinkle of Cajun seasoning and the smoked paprika (if using). Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet (add a little more oil if needed), sauté the diced onion, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook these for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant.
4. Make the Creamy Sauce:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to come together.
5. Add Cheese and Season:
Sprinkle in the shredded Parmesan cheese and stir until it melts into the sauce, making it creamy and delicious. Taste and season with salt and black pepper according to your preference.
6. Combine Ingredients:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce, then add the cooked bowtie pasta. Gently toss everything together until the pasta is well coated, and the chicken and peppers are evenly distributed throughout.
7. Heat Through:
Let everything cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, garnish your delicious dish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions. Now you’re ready to enjoy your flavorful, creamy, and spicy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet!
Bon appétit!
Can I Use Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta will add some extra fiber, while gluten-free pasta can be a great alternative for those with dietary restrictions. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you use, as it may cook differently.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk or almond milk. Keep in mind that using alternatives may change the flavor a bit, so choose one that complements your taste.
How Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you love heat, you can add more Cajun seasoning or include chopped jalapeños or cayenne pepper to the recipe. Additionally, serving with a hot sauce on the side allows everyone to customize their spice level!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! Prepare everything up to the point where you combine the chicken with the pasta and sauce. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat on the stove, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen it up if needed.
