Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet
This Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet is a flavorful and satisfying one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and bowtie pasta are coated in a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce for an irresistible dish that's ready in minutes.
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Pot for pasta
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound bowtie pasta farfalle
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning adjust to your spice preference
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper optional, for extra heat
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley or green onions for garnish optional
- Red pepper flakes for garnish optional
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, undercooking slightly.
- 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.
- 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.
- Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, oregano, and cayenne pepper (if using) into the vegetables. Cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained) and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
- 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.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly in the sauce.
- Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions and red pepper flakes (if desired). Serve immediately.
Notes
Don't overcook the pasta, as it will continue to cook in the sauce. Adjust the spice level to your preference. Use high-quality chicken for the best flavor. The Parmesan cheese adds creaminess and richness. Get creative with vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. For a seafood twist, add shrimp along with the chicken. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently, adding a splash of chicken broth or water if needed.