CAJUN CHICKEN BOWTIE PASTA SKILLET IRRESISTIBLE

If you’re craving a bold, spicy, and satisfying meal that comes together in a single skillet, look no further! Imagine tender chicken, vibrant peppers, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, all coated in a creamy, flavorful Cajun sauce. This Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet is the answer to your weeknight dinner prayers, and I promise you’ll be coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

What Makes This Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet So Special?

This isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. As far as Cajun Sausage Pasta goes, this chicken version provides a lighter, but equally flavorful change of pace. What sets this recipe apart is its simplicity. Seriously, one skillet means minimal cleanup, and the quick cooking time makes it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can easily customize the vegetables and spice level to suit your preferences. Speaking of customization, if you’re feeling adventurous, try adding shrimp alongside the chicken for an extra seafood kick. It also makes a wonderful option amongst other delicious Western Dinner Ideas.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken & Pasta:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound bowtie pasta (farfalle)

Veggies & Aromatics:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Cajun Cream Sauce:

• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped fresh parsley or green onions
• Red pepper flakes (for extra heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Getting Started:

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside. (Pro tip: Undercook it by a minute or two because it will continue to cook in the sauce.)

Sautéing the Chicken and Veggies:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Add the onion and bell peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Making the Cajun Cream Sauce:

1. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) into the vegetables. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This really blooms the spices and enhances the flavor.
2. Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
3. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Bringing It All Together:

1. Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
2. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Serving:

1. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions and red pepper flakes (if desired). Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet!

Tips and Tricks for the Best Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet

• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: As mentioned earlier, slightly undercooking the pasta is key. It will continue to cook in the sauce, so you want to avoid it becoming mushy.
• Adjust the Spice Level: Cajun seasoning can vary in heat, so start with a smaller amount and add more to taste. The cayenne pepper is optional, but it definitely adds a nice kick!
• Use High-Quality Chicken: The better the chicken, the better the dish. Opt for organic or free-range chicken if possible.
• Don’t Skip the Parmesan: The Parmesan cheese adds a lovely creaminess and richness to the sauce. Freshly grated is always best!
• Get Creative with Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. This recipe is a wonderful example of Creamy Chicken Spinach Penne Ultimate, except with a Cajun flare!
• Make it Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just reheat it before adding the pasta and chicken.

Variations to Try

• Shrimp and Chicken Cajun Pasta: Add peeled and deveined shrimp along with the chicken for a seafood twist. Cook the shrimp until pink and opaque before adding the pasta. This also is similar to Creamy Cajun Shrimp Crab Pasta, but a bit more simplified.
• Vegetarian Cajun Pasta: Omit the chicken and add more vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, or bell peppers. You can also add chickpeas or black beans for added protein.
• Spicy Cajun Sausage Pasta: Substitute the chicken with sliced Cajun smoked sausage for a different flavor profile. A similar vibe to Cajun Smoked Sausage Alfredo Pasta, but this variation will keep that skillet theme strong.
• Creamy Tomato Cajun Pasta: Add a can of crushed tomatoes to the sauce for a richer, tomato-based flavor.
• Chicken And Peppers Pasta: If you are less into the cream sauce, you can reduce the amount of cream and broth to create a more tomato forward Chicken And Peppers Pasta.

Why This Recipe Works

This Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet is a winner because it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and creamy Cajun sauce is simply irresistible. It’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or vegetables, and it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Plus, the one-skillet cleanup is a major bonus! It’s a fantastic option amongst other Pasta Skillet recipes. And while this recipe may seem like one of those more complex dinner recipes, I promise it’s not!

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping in the sauce. It’s also delicious with a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil. For a complete meal, consider serving it with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad. Consider serving this up as an alternative option to Cajun Chicken Sloppy Joes Ultimate for a different texture, but same delicious Cajun spice!

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave. The pasta may absorb some of the sauce as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating. It’s perfect for meal prepping, too. This Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet is a guaranteed hit! It’s a flavorful, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. So, grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a taste of Louisiana in your own kitchen!