Name: Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Alfredo Sauce
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 12 oz bowtie pasta; 1 lb chicken breasts; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 3/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp chopped parsley (optional)

If comfort food had a spicy twin, it would be this Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Alfredo Sauce. It’s everything you crave on a cozy evening: creamy, cheesy, bold, and deeply satisfying. The bowtie pasta captures every drop of rich sauce, while the Cajun-seasoned chicken brings a punch of smoky heat that makes this dish irresistible.

This isn’t your average pasta night. It’s a Southern-style twist that transforms your kitchen into a bustling bistro, full of sizzling garlic, bubbling cheese, and that irresistible aroma of Cajun spice hitting hot oil. And the best part? It’s all tossed together in one luxurious Alfredo sauce that melts into every fold of pasta and seared chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

From weeknight dinners to indulgent weekend meals, this pasta delivers big on flavor without requiring complicated steps. The Cajun seasoning infuses each bite with zest, the garlic keeps things savory, and the creamy Alfredo brings that luscious finish. It’s fast, filling, and totally crave-worthy.

Plus, it’s the kind of recipe that feels restaurant-fancy but is made entirely at home. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself, this pasta makes an impression.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Bowtie pasta (farfalle) is ideal for this recipe because of its ability to trap sauce in its folds and ridges. It adds a touch of whimsy to the plate while holding up well to thick sauces. If you can’t find bowties, penne or rotini are good alternatives. Just make sure your pasta has some texture to cling onto that dreamy Alfredo sauce.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Alfredo Sauce

This dish comes together with a handful of pantry staples and a few key flavor boosters. The magic lies in how each ingredient layers into the next, building a dish that’s both rich and vibrant. The Cajun spice, the creamy Alfredo, and the al dente pasta all play a crucial role in making this a stand-out dinner.

Bowtie pasta
Chicken breasts
Cajun seasoning
Garlic cloves
Olive oil
Butter
Heavy cream
Parmesan cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper
Parsley (optional, for garnish)

Each of these ingredients brings something essential. The bowtie pasta creates those perfect bite-sized pockets for sauce. Chicken breasts are lean, juicy, and soak up that Cajun flavor. Cajun seasoning adds spice and warmth, while garlic gives that unmistakable aroma. The combination of olive oil and butter is key for browning and richness. The cream and cheeses form a decadent Alfredo, and a touch of parsley at the end freshens it all up.

Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Alfredo Sauce 2

How To Make the Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Alfredo Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about half a cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Alfredo Sauce

In the same skillet, lower the heat and add butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring frequently. Once simmering, gradually add Parmesan and mozzarella, stirring until melted and smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the skillet and stir into the Alfredo sauce. Add the cooked bowtie pasta and gently toss to coat everything evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Get ready for empty plates and requests for seconds.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Alfredo Sauce

This dish is at its best served straight from the pan while the sauce is creamy and the cheese still gooey. The flavor-packed chicken, silky Alfredo, and tender pasta all shine brightest when freshly tossed together. It comfortably feeds four people, though leftovers are just as delightful.

To store, let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. A gentle stovetop reheat is ideal to maintain the creamy texture.

What to Serve With Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta?

Garlic Bread with a Crunch

Crusty garlic bread is the perfect companion. It soaks up any extra sauce and adds a nice textural contrast to the creamy pasta.

Simple Arugula Salad

A lightly dressed arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette helps balance the richness with some peppery freshness.

Roasted Asparagus

The smoky char from roasted asparagus pairs beautifully with the Cajun spice.

Southern-Style Green Beans

Tender green beans slow-cooked with a bit of onion and bacon bring a homey, savory edge.

Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Crisped edges and cheesy bits on broccoli make it a hit next to this creamy dish.

Classic Caprese Salad

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil add a refreshing, colorful element to your plate.

Creamy Coleslaw

The cool crunch of a creamy slaw contrasts the pasta’s heat and richness just right.

Skillet Cornbread

Sweet, buttery, and golden, cornbread makes for a deliciously Southern side that also holds up to saucy bites.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Cajun Kick?

If you loved this Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Alfredo Sauce, your taste buds are in for a treat with these other bold and creamy pasta dishes from Janet Dishes:

Try the Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for a smoky, sausage-packed alternative.
This One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni keeps the cleanup light and the flavors big.
Don’t miss the Creamy Cottage Cheese Pasta Sauce if you’re into rich comfort food with a healthy twist.
Or the ultra-satisfying Tuscan Chicken Pasta with sun-dried tomatoes and spinach.
Spice things up with Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta for seafood lovers.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it anytime.

Let me know how yours turned out. Did you add more heat or more cheese? Maybe a splash of white wine or a handful of spinach? I’d love to hear what made it uniquely yours.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks, easy pastas, and hearty dinners on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your next kitchen obsession!

Conclusion

Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Alfredo Sauce is that perfect intersection of bold Southern flavor and creamy comfort. It’s weeknight-friendly but special enough for guests, and every bite delivers Cajun warmth wrapped in velvety sauce. From the juicy chicken to the cheesy finish, this pasta brings people together around the table with full hearts and happy stomachs.