This Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet is a tasty one-pan meal that’s a breeze to make. With spicy chicken, colorful veggies, and bowtie pasta, it’s both filling and fun!
You’ll love how quick this dish comes together—just cook everything in one skillet! It’s perfect for busy nights. Plus, who doesn’t love pasta, right? 🍝😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts give a nice lean protein. However, you can swap them for thighs if you prefer more flavor. Leftover rotisserie chicken also works well, saving time!
Cajun seasoning: This adds a lovely kick. If you don’t have it, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper for a quick homemade version. Adjust to taste for your spice level!
Pasta: Bowtie pasta is great for this dish, but feel free to use penne, fusilli, or any pasta you have on hand. Just check the cooking time, as it may vary.
Heavy cream: For a lighter option, opt for half-and-half or even a non-dairy milk with a touch of cornstarch to thicken it up. Cream cheese can also lend a smooth texture.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure Tender Pasta?
Cooking pasta correctly can be tricky. Start by using enough water to cover the pasta completely, and salt it generously so the pasta absorbs flavor. Once you add the uncooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, stir frequently during cooking.
- Bring the chicken broth and cream mix to a boil before adding pasta.
- Cover and simmer on low, ensuring it doesn’t boil over. Stir often to prevent sticking!
- Check for doneness: the pasta should be al dente, tender but still with a slight bite.
This will make sure your pasta is perfectly cooked and delicious! Enjoy your meal!
Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 ½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz (225 g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta, uncooked
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a mix of cheddar and mozzarella)
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 30 minutes in total. It includes around 10 minutes for prep and another 20 minutes for cooking. Super quick and convenient for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add in the bite-sized chicken pieces and sprinkle the Cajun seasoning on top. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nice and browned and cooked through. Once done, carefully remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Cook the Garlic and Tomatoes:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant. Then toss in the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until they start to soften up. This will build a lovely base for your dish!
3. Add the Pasta:
Now, add the uncooked bowtie pasta to the skillet, stirring it briefly to combine with the tomatoes and garlic. This helps the pasta absorb all the wonderful flavors.
4. Combine Broth and Cream:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring gently to mix everything together. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover it with a lid and let it simmer for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
5. Mix in the Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Now stir in the shredded cheese and let it melt into a creamy, delicious sauce. If you enjoy a bit of extra heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes at this stage.
6. Final Touches:
Give everything a taste, and season with salt and black pepper as needed to reach your desired flavor. A little adjustment can make all the difference!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve it warm straight from the skillet and enjoy a satisfying meal with family or friends!
Bon appétit! Enjoy your delicious and creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta can easily be substituted in this recipe. Just be aware that it may require a slightly longer cooking time, so check for doneness a couple of minutes before the suggested time.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’d like a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or use a non-dairy milk such as almond or coconut milk, along with a bit of cornstarch to help thicken the sauce. Keep in mind that the flavor and creaminess may vary slightly.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You might want to add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce as it may thicken in the fridge.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for more color and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time to ensure all the veggies are tender but still crisp for that perfect bite!
