If you’ve ever craved the perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and comforting flavors, this Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate dish. It combines juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken, a luxuriously smooth Alfredo sauce, and pasta that holds the sauce perfectly. It’s restaurant-worthy but surprisingly easy to make at home—and your family will probably ask for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔️ Bold flavor combo: smoky Cajun spices + creamy Alfredo sauce
✔️ One-pan convenience: fewer dishes, faster cleanup
✔️ Versatile: works with chicken, shrimp, or sausage
✔️ Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what makes this pasta dish truly stand out:
- Bowtie pasta (farfalle): Its ridges and shape hold creamy sauces beautifully.
- Chicken breast or thighs: Lean protein that absorbs Cajun seasoning well.
- Cajun seasoning: A robust blend of paprika, garlic, onion, cayenne, and herbs. Adjust heat to your taste.
- Olive oil + butter: For searing and flavor layering.
- Garlic (freshly minced): Builds the flavor foundation for the Alfredo sauce.
- Heavy cream: Creates the luxurious, silky base.
- Freshly grated Parmesan: Melts smoother than pre-shredded cheese, giving a richer taste.
- Chicken broth (optional): Lightens the sauce and deepens flavor.
- Salt & pepper: Always season to taste.
- Fresh parsley (optional garnish): Adds a fresh pop of color and balance.
✨ Optional Add-ins: Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or shrimp for variety.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
- Bring salted water to a boil.
- Cook bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente.
- Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain.
2. Season & Cook the Chicken
- Pat chicken dry and coat generously with Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil + butter in a skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Transfer to a plate, let rest, then slice.
3. Make the Garlic Parmesan Alfredo Sauce
- In the same skillet, add a little butter if needed.
- Sauté garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream and simmer 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Adjust consistency with a splash of pasta water or chicken broth.
4. Combine & Finish
- Add drained bowtie pasta into the sauce, tossing gently to coat.
- Top with sliced Cajun chicken.
- Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan.
Pro Chef Tips
- Don’t overcook chicken—it should stay juicy and tender.
- Save pasta water: The starch helps bind the sauce for a restaurant-style finish.
- Spice level control: Use mild Cajun seasoning or reduce cayenne for a family-friendly version.
- For extra richness: Add a spoonful of cream cheese to the sauce.
Variations You’ll Love
- Cajun Shrimp Alfredo: Swap chicken for shrimp (cooks in 2–3 minutes per side).
- Sausage & Chicken Combo: Add smoked Andouille sausage for extra Cajun flair.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers.
- Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of cream, or Greek yogurt for a tangy twist.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in airtight container up to 3–4 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet with a splash of milk or cream—don’t microwave too long or sauce may split.
- Freezer: Not ideal (cream sauces separate), but you can freeze chicken and pasta separately, then make fresh sauce.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Cajun Alfredo without cream?
A: Yes! Use evaporated milk, half-and-half, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Q: What’s the best pasta shape for Alfredo?
A: Bowtie pasta works great, but fettuccine, penne, or rigatoni also hold creamy sauces well.
Q: How can I make this less spicy?
A: Use half the Cajun seasoning and balance with extra Parmesan.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 610
- Protein: 34g
- Carbs: 52g
- Fat: 28g
(Values may vary based on ingredients.)
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta pairs beautifully with:
- Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks
- A crisp Caesar salad
- Roasted broccoli or asparagus
- A chilled glass of Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta delivers everything you want in a comfort meal—creamy, cheesy, spicy, and satisfying. It’s impressive enough for guests yet simple enough for weeknights. Try it once, and it might just become your go-to pasta recipe.
