Description

This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a deliciously indulgent dish that perfectly combines the bold, spicy flavors of Cajun seasoning with the comforting richness of a creamy pasta sauce. Tender chunks of chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and bow tie pasta come together in a smooth, velvety sauce, creating a dish that’s as satisfying as it is flavorful. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or a special meal for guests, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz. bow tie pasta
3 Tbsp. unsalted butter
1 1/2 tsp. minced garlic
2–3 chicken breasts, cut into chunks
3 tsp. Cajun seasoning, more or less to taste
4 oz. cream cheese, softened
1 cup milk
3/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 tsp. black pepper
1/2 tsp. salt
1 red bell pepper, cut into slices
1 yellow bell pepper, cut into slices

Instructions

Cook the Pasta:
Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain, rinse with cold water, and set aside.
Sauté Garlic:
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant and lightly golden.
Cook Chicken and Vegetables:
Add the cubed chicken, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is no longer pink inside. Add the red and yellow bell peppers and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the peppers are tender-crisp.
Make the Sauce:
Reduce heat to medium-low. Add softened cream cheese to the skillet, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring to combine, and let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly.
Combine Pasta and Sauce:
Add the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Stir until the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve:
Serve immediately with garlic bread or a green salad. Garnish with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, or green onions for added flavor and visual appeal. Enjoy!

Notes

Pasta Substitutes: You can substitute bow tie pasta with penne, fettuccine, or any pasta of your choice that can hold the sauce well.
Cajun Seasoning: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your heat preference. For a spicier dish, add more cayenne pepper.
Make-Ahead Tips: While the dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time. Store them separately and combine with the sauce when ready to serve.
Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use almond or coconut milk to create a dairy-free version of this dish.
Additional Vegetables: Feel free to add extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to enhance the nutritional value and flavor of the dish.