Name: Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts; 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 8 ounces bowtie pasta; 2 cloves garlic minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt to taste; Black pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon chopped parsley for garnish

When I first made this Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce, it was purely out of curiosity. I had some leftover chicken, a half-bag of bowtie pasta, and a strong craving for something rich and comforting—but not the usual Alfredo. What came together was something unexpectedly delicious: tender, juicy Cajun-spiced chicken, creamy cheesy pasta that clings to every forkful, and a flavor profile that walks the line between bold and cozy. Now, it’s one of those dishes I find myself making again and again.

The beauty of this recipe is in the balance. The Cajun seasoning brings heat and smokiness, which perfectly complements the cool creaminess of the mozzarella sauce. It’s hearty without being too heavy and fancy enough to impress guests, but easy enough for a weeknight dinner. If you’re looking for a new comfort food staple—this is it.

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

This dish is a flavor-packed powerhouse that combines spice, richness, and texture in every bite. You’ll love how quickly it comes together and how beautifully it presents. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just treating yourself, the creamy pasta and perfectly seasoned chicken are a match made in culinary heaven. Plus, it reheats well—if you have any leftovers, that is.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use for Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce?

For this recipe, I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts because they cook quickly and slice beautifully for presentation. They also absorb the Cajun seasoning well, creating a crispy, flavorful crust when seared. However, chicken thighs are a great option too—they’re juicier and a bit more forgiving if you accidentally overcook them. Either way, aim for even thickness so your chicken cooks uniformly and stays tender.

Options for Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly adaptable, so feel free to get creative if you’re missing an ingredient or catering to dietary needs:

Pasta: Swap bowtie pasta for penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine—just make sure to use a pasta that holds sauce well.

Mozzarella Cheese: If you don’t have mozzarella, try Monterey Jack for meltiness or provolone for a mild twist.
Cream: Heavy cream gives the richest sauce, but half-and-half or even evaporated milk can work in a pinch.
Protein: Want to switch it up? Use shrimp or sliced sausage instead of chicken for a different Cajun-inspired experience.

Seasoning: If Cajun spice is too intense, use a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of cayenne for a milder take.
Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and ensure all seasonings and sauces are certified gluten-free.

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

Each ingredient in this dish plays a key role in bringing out bold flavors and rich, creamy textures. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): The ridges and folds of bowtie pasta trap the creamy cheese sauce beautifully, delivering maximum flavor in every bite.
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: These provide the perfect canvas for Cajun seasoning and sear to golden perfection while staying juicy.
Cajun Seasoning: Adds a smoky, spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. Choose your favorite blend or make your own.

Olive Oil: Used for searing the chicken; it helps create that slightly crispy, flavorful crust.
Butter: Adds depth and richness to both the chicken and the sauce.
Garlic (Minced): Aromatic and essential for building flavor in the sauce base.

Heavy Cream: Creates the luscious, velvety sauce that coats the pasta.
Mozzarella Cheese (Shredded): Melts into the sauce for that ultra-creamy, stringy texture we love.
Parmesan Cheese (Grated): Adds sharpness and balances the mild mozzarella with a salty punch.

Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that enhance all the flavors in the dish.
Parsley (Fresh or Dried): Adds a pop of color and freshness as a final garnish.

Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken

Pat the chicken breasts dry and generously coat both sides with Cajun seasoning. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the spices to soak in while you prepare the other ingredients.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and a bit of butter. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and sear for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and nicely charred. Remove from the skillet and let it rest before slicing.

Step 3: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet you used for the chicken (don’t wipe it clean—you want those flavors), reduce the heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Add the Cheese

Slowly whisk in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the cheesy sauce. Let it cook for another 2 minutes so the flavors meld together.

Step 7: Serve

Slice the rested Cajun chicken and serve over a generous portion of the creamy bowtie pasta. Garnish with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired.

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

The entire dish comes together in about 30 to 35 minutes:

Chicken prep and cook time: ~15 minutes
Pasta boiling time: ~10–12 minutes (done simultaneously)

Sauce preparation and final assembly: ~10 minutes

It’s a quick dish that feels gourmet but doesn’t take hours in the kitchen.

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

Pound the chicken for even cooking: If your chicken breasts are thick, lightly pound them to an even thickness so they cook evenly and stay juicy.

Don’t overcook the pasta: Cook it just until al dente, since it will continue to cook a little once it hits the hot sauce.
Use freshly shredded cheese: Pre-shredded cheese can contain anti-caking agents that affect how smoothly it melts. Shred mozzarella and Parmesan yourself for the silkiest sauce.
Reserve some pasta water: This starchy water is great for loosening up the sauce if it gets too thick.

Let the chicken rest before slicing: This keeps all those flavorful juices locked in.
Taste and adjust seasoning: Cajun spice blends can vary in heat and saltiness, so taste as you go and adjust to your preference.
Finish with fresh parsley: It brightens up the richness of the dish and makes it look as good as it tastes.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Even a simple dish like this can take a wrong turn if you’re not careful. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Overcooking the Chicken: Cajun seasoning chars quickly, so keep an eye on the heat and use a meat thermometer if needed. Aim for an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
Skipping the Rest Time for Chicken: Cutting too soon releases all the juices. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing.

Burning the Garlic: Garlic burns fast and turns bitter. Sauté it gently for only 30 seconds to a minute before adding the cream.
Adding Cheese Too Fast: Dumping all the cheese in at once can lead to clumps. Add it slowly while stirring constantly.
Using Cold Ingredients: Cold cream or cheese can cause the sauce to seize or split. Let dairy sit out for a few minutes before using.

Not Salting the Pasta Water: It’s your one chance to season the pasta itself. The water should taste like the sea!

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

This creamy, spicy pasta pairs beautifully with fresh, crisp, or lightly acidic sides. Here are my favorite options:

Garden Salad with Lemon Vinaigrette

The acidity of a lemony dressing balances the richness of the pasta and refreshes the palate.

Garlic Bread or Herb Focaccia

Great for soaking up extra sauce and adding a crunchy texture to the meal.

Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus

A roasted veggie adds a slightly charred, earthy contrast to the creamy pasta.

Caprese Salad

Fresh tomatoes, basil, and mozzarella drizzled with balsamic glaze are a cool counterpoint to the spicy chicken.

Sauteed Green Beans with Garlic

Crisp-tender and savory, green beans bring color and a nice snap to the plate.

Caesar Salad

Bold flavors and crunch from the romaine and croutons play well with creamy pasta dishes.

A Glass of White Wine (like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio)

Helps cut through the richness and elevates your weeknight dinner into something a little fancy.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), this dish stores and reheats beautifully with just a little care:

Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Not recommended due to the cream-based sauce, which can separate when thawed.

Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.

If the sauce tightens up too much after chilling, a splash of pasta water or milk can bring back its silky texture.

Estimated Nutrition

These numbers are approximate and based on one serving (assuming four servings total):

Calories: 690 kcal
Protein: 39g
Carbohydrates: 45g

Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 145mg

Sodium: 620mg
Sugar: 3g
Fiber: 2g

This is a satisfying, protein-packed meal with a creamy indulgence—great for a hearty dinner. You can reduce the fat by using light cream and less cheese, but honestly, it’s worth the splurge!

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is the Cajun chicken in this recipe?

The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning. Most blends offer a mild to moderate heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with less and add more to taste.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and cook the pasta ahead of time, but for the best texture and flavor, it’s ideal to make the sauce and assemble it fresh.

What if my sauce turns out too thick?

No worries—just add a splash of reserved pasta water, milk, or cream while stirring until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Slice or shred it, season lightly with Cajun spice, and warm it up before tossing it with the pasta and sauce.

Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?

You can try substituting the cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free mozzarella-style cheese. It won’t be identical, but it’ll still be rich and flavorful.

Can I use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta?

Absolutely. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time and adjust for taste and texture.

How can I add more vegetables to the dish?

Toss in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach when you add the sauce. They blend in beautifully with the creamy texture.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc or a slightly oaky Chardonnay cuts through the richness and complements the Cajun spices.

Conclusion

Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Cajun Chicken and Mozzarella Cheese Sauce is one of those dishes that brings comfort, bold flavor, and satisfaction all in one skillet. It’s indulgent without being overwhelming, spicy without being overpowering, and easy enough to make on a busy weeknight. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, this recipe is bound to become a regular in your rotation. So go ahead—grab a fork, twirl that creamy pasta, and enjoy every spicy, cheesy bite.