Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

When I want a dinner that feels indulgent yet comforting, I always turn to this Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce. It’s one of those dishes that checks all the boxes: tender pasta, juicy blackened chicken, and a silky, cheesy sauce that’s rich with bold Cajun spices. Every bite delivers a perfect mix of creamy, smoky, and savory, and it never lasts long at the dinner table.

I first made this dish on a whim, craving something that felt like restaurant-style comfort food but made right in my own kitchen. The magic lies in how easily it comes together while still tasting like something you’d order on a night out. Whether I’m cooking for friends or making a cozy weeknight meal, this one always delivers—and the aroma alone is enough to make anyone’s mouth water.

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Why You’ll Love This Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

• It’s rich and creamy without being overly heavy.
• The Cajun seasoning gives the dish a bold, flavorful kick.
• The mozzarella sauce melts beautifully over the pasta.
• It’s a complete, satisfying meal in one bowl.
• Easily adaptable for spice levels and dietary needs.
• Ready in under 40 minutes, making it a weeknight hero.

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What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are my go-to for this recipe. They cook quickly, soak up the Cajun spices perfectly, and slice beautifully for presentation. If you're a fan of darker meat, boneless chicken thighs are a great alternative—they offer a richer flavor and stay incredibly juicy, even with high-heat searing. Just make sure whatever cut you choose is evenly thick or pounded to an even thickness so it cooks uniformly.

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Options for Substitutions

Pasta: While bowtie (farfalle) pasta holds the sauce beautifully, you can easily swap it for penne, rotini, or fettuccine. Short pasta shapes with ridges cling to the sauce best.

Chicken: Swap chicken for shrimp or even sliced andouille sausage for a fun Southern twist. For a vegetarian version, use roasted mushrooms or seasoned tofu.

Mozzarella Cheese: If mozzarella isn’t your thing, try Monterey Jack for a similar melt, or Parmesan for a sharper finish. Cream cheese can also add richness if you’re looking for extra creaminess.

Cream: Heavy cream gives the best texture, but half-and-half or even a mix of milk and Greek yogurt can lighten the dish while keeping it smooth.

Cajun Seasoning: No Cajun seasoning? Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper for a quick homemade blend.

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

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle)
This pasta shape isn’t just cute—it holds the creamy sauce beautifully, especially in the folds and creases, making every bite flavorful.

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts
The star of the dish. Chicken breast cooks quickly and absorbs all the bold Cajun spices, delivering tender and juicy bites.

Cajun Seasoning
This spice blend is the heart of the dish, giving the chicken a smoky, slightly spicy flavor that balances the richness of the sauce.

Olive Oil & Butter
Used for searing the chicken and starting the sauce. The combo of olive oil and butter creates depth and enhances the overall flavor.

Garlic (Minced)
Fresh garlic adds a punch of savory sharpness to the creamy sauce, bringing everything together.

Heavy Cream
The base of the luscious sauce. It gives the dish its silky, indulgent texture that coats every piece of pasta.

Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded)
Melted into the sauce, it gives a mild, stretchy creaminess that makes the dish comforting and irresistible.

Parmesan Cheese (Optional but Recommended)
Adds a salty, nutty finish to balance out the richness of the cream and mozzarella.

Salt and Black Pepper
Essential for seasoning the chicken and sauce, making all the flavors pop.

Fresh Parsley or Basil (Chopped, for Garnish)
A touch of green on top adds freshness and color, giving the dish a finished look and a hint of herbiness.

Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)
For those who like extra heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes kicks the spice level up a notch.

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Step 1: Season and Prepare the Chicken

Pat your chicken breasts dry and rub both sides generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and a touch of olive oil. Let it rest at room temperature for about 10–15 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.

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Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

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Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a mix of olive oil and butter. Once hot, add the chicken breasts and sear for 4–5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and golden with a slight char. Remove from the skillet, let rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.

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Step 4: Make the Creamy Mozzarella Sauce

In the same skillet (don’t clean it—those browned bits are flavor gold!), lower the heat to medium and add a bit more butter if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the shredded mozzarella, a small handful at a time, until fully melted and smooth. Add salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. If the sauce feels too thick, use a splash of reserved pasta water to thin it slightly.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the sauce and toss until every piece is well coated. Let it simmer for another 1–2 minutes so the flavors can marry.

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Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Transfer the creamy pasta onto a serving dish or individual plates. Top with the sliced Cajun chicken, sprinkle with chopped parsley or basil, and finish with a light dusting of Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

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How Long to Cook Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

This dish comes together surprisingly quickly:

• Pasta Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes (depending on brand and desired firmness)
• Chicken Cooking Time: 8–10 minutes (4–5 minutes per side for average thickness)
• Sauce Preparation: 5–7 minutes
• Final Assembly and Simmer: 2–3 minutes

Total time: About 30–35 minutes from start to finish, including prep.

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Tips for Perfect Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce

• Pound the Chicken Evenly: This ensures uniform cooking and prevents dryness.
• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may prevent smooth melting.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches if needed to get that beautiful sear.
• Deglaze Wisely: A splash of pasta water or even chicken broth in the pan helps lift the flavorful bits stuck at the bottom—don’t skip it.
• Balance the Spice: Adjust the Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to match your spice preference.
• Serve Immediately: The creamy sauce is at its best when hot and freshly made.
• Reserve Pasta Water: A few tablespoons can rescue a sauce that's too thick without watering down the flavor.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cajun-seasoned chicken can dry out quickly if left on the heat too long. Sear until golden and cooked through, then let it rest before slicing.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Pre-shredded or overly processed mozzarella won’t melt into a smooth sauce—opt for fresh, whole-milk mozzarella if possible.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: This starchy liquid is key to adjusting the sauce’s thickness without losing flavor.
• Overcrowding the Pan: When searing the chicken, give it room to caramelize. If it's too crowded, the chicken will steam instead of developing that tasty crust.
• Undersalting the Pasta Water: Salted water is essential for flavorful pasta—don’t be shy.
• Boiling the Cream Too Hard: Once the cream is in the pan, keep the heat at medium to avoid breaking the sauce.

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What to Serve With Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce?

Garlic Bread or Cheesy Toast

Perfect for mopping up every last bit of that creamy Cajun sauce.

Simple Green Salad

A crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta dish.

Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus

Lightly roasted veggies add a healthy crunch and a pop of green.

A Glass of White Wine

Something crisp like Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the creamy sauce beautifully.

Sauteed Spinach with Garlic

Quick, flavorful, and complements the Cajun spices without competing.

Lemon-Dressed Arugula

The peppery greens and citrus dressing offer a bright contrast.

Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil echo the cheese notes in the pasta, with a refreshing twist.

Cajun Shrimp Skewers

If you're feeding a crowd, these make a spicy and fun addition to the meal.

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Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it cools, but it reheats well with a splash of milk or cream in a skillet over low heat.

Freezing is not ideal for this dish, as the creamy mozzarella sauce can separate and become grainy when thawed. If you must freeze it, do so without the pasta and reheat slowly with added cream to restore the texture.

When reheating:

• Use a skillet over low heat and stir gently to prevent the sauce from breaking.
• Avoid microwaving for too long at once—do it in short bursts with a bit of milk stirred in.

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Estimated Nutrition

Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings total):

• Calories: 620
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Cholesterol: 125mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 820mg

Keep in mind these numbers can vary based on the exact brands and portions you use. For a lighter version, reduce the cream or cheese and opt for grilled chicken breast with less oil.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

No problem! You can make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix and adjust to your spice level.

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Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and even cook the pasta a day in advance. However, for the best texture, make the sauce and combine everything just before serving.

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How do I keep the sauce from clumping or getting stringy?

Use freshly shredded mozzarella and melt it slowly over medium heat. Stir continuously and avoid boiling the sauce once the cheese is added.

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Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat from the Cajun seasoning. If you're sensitive to spice, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes and use a mild Cajun blend.

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Can I use a different kind of cheese?

Yes! Monterey Jack, fontina, or a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan all work well. Just ensure it's a melty cheese for that creamy texture.

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What kind of pasta works best if I don’t have bowtie?

Penne, rotini, or shells are great substitutes. You want a shape that holds the sauce well and gives some texture to each bite.

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Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely. Bell peppers, spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes make tasty additions and bring a pop of color.

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Is it possible to make this dish lighter?

You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheese. Just note the sauce may be slightly less rich and creamy.

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Conclusion

Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce is one of those meals that feels like a hug in a bowl—bold, comforting, and indulgent all at once. It brings together a satisfying mix of textures and flavors: smoky chicken, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd, a date night, or just treating yourself, this dish brings serious flavor with minimal fuss. Once you try it, it just might earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation.

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