Imagine the first bite — tender, juicy Cajun-spiced chicken nestled in silky garlic Parmesan Alfredo sauce, each bowtie pasta coated in a rich, creamy layer that melts on your tongue. This Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta brings the perfect balance of heat, creaminess, and comfort to your dinner table.
Unlike traditional Alfredo, this version adds a bold twist of Cajun seasoning—smoky, spicy, and deeply flavorful. Best of all, it’s ready in just 30 minutes with simple ingredients you already have in your kitchen. Whether it’s a family dinner, date night, or meal prep favorite, this recipe delivers restaurant-level satisfaction every time.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🍝 Perfectly creamy without being heavy or greasy
- 🔥 Bold Cajun flavor that’s balanced and customizable
- 🕒 Quick and easy – on the table in under 30 minutes
- 🍗 Protein-packed with tender, juicy chicken
- 🧄 Garlic Parmesan goodness in every single bite
- 🥘 Ideal for family dinners, leftovers, or meal prep
🧂 Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Bowtie (Farfalle) Pasta | 12 oz | Holds creamy sauce beautifully |
| Chicken Breasts | 2 large | Lean protein that absorbs Cajun flavor |
| Cajun Seasoning | 2 tbsp | Adds smoky heat and depth |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves | Essential for aroma and flavor |
| Butter | 2 tbsp | Creates the Alfredo base |
| Heavy Cream | 1 ½ cups | Makes the sauce velvety and rich |
| Parmesan Cheese (freshly grated) | ¾ cup | Adds creaminess and saltiness |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp | Helps sear the chicken perfectly |
| Salt & Black Pepper | To taste | Balances overall flavor |
| Fresh Parsley (chopped) | For garnish | Adds color and freshness |
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup sliced smoked sausage
- ½ cup sautéed bell peppers
- ½ cup spinach or sun-dried tomatoes
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente (about 10 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Season & Cook the Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry and season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden and fully cooked (internal temp: 165°F / 74°C).
Remove from skillet and set aside to rest. Slice into strips.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Alfredo Sauce
In the same pan, melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer (do not boil). Stir in Cajun seasoning.
Step 4: Add Parmesan & Adjust
Add freshly grated Parmesan and stir until melted and the sauce thickens slightly.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta and sliced chicken to the pan. Toss gently to coat every piece in the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Garnish & Serve
Top with chopped parsley, extra Parmesan, and a sprinkle of Cajun spice. Serve hot and enjoy!
👨🍳 Chef’s Pro Tips
- Always use freshly grated Parmesan — pre-shredded cheese won’t melt smoothly.
- Keep the heat low when adding cream and cheese to prevent curdling.
- Add a dash of lemon juice at the end to balance richness.
- For a smoky flavor, use blackened Cajun seasoning or smoked paprika.
- Turn it into a seafood Alfredo by substituting shrimp or crab.
🔄 Variations
| Version | Key Ingredient | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Shrimp Cajun Alfredo | Shrimp | Quick-cooking, juicy, and light |
| Sausage Cajun Alfredo | Smoked Sausage | Adds deep smoky notes |
| Vegetarian Version | Mushrooms + Spinach | Creamy and nutrient-rich |
| Spicy Version | Extra Cajun or Cayenne | For heat lovers |
🧮 Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 620 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Carbohydrates | 42 g |
| Fat | 34 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sodium | 640 mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and vary based on ingredients used.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely. Fettuccine, penne, or rotini work perfectly with this sauce.
How do I make it less spicy?
Use half the Cajun seasoning and balance with extra Parmesan or cream.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk.
Is Cajun seasoning very spicy?
It’s mildly spicy with a smoky kick. You can easily control the heat level based on your taste.
🌟 Expert Cooking Insight
The magic of this dish lies in temperature control and timing. Let the cream simmer gently, not boil, so the fats and cheese emulsify perfectly into a silky sauce.
Adding Parmesan gradually while whisking ensures no clumping and a smooth, luxurious consistency.
📸 Suggested Additions for Engagement
- Add step-by-step photos of key stages (sautéing, sauce texture, final plating).
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🔗 Related Recipes You’ll Love
- Homemade Cajun Seasoning Mix
- Creamy Garlic Shrimp Alfredo
- Easy Cheesy Garlic Bread
- One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Pasta
🏁 Final Serving Note
Serve this Creamy Cajun Chicken Alfredo with Garlic Parmesan Bowtie Pasta with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for the ultimate dinner experience. It’s elegant enough for guests yet simple enough for a weeknight meal.
💬 Tried this recipe? Leave a 5-star rating below and tag your creation on Instagram with #CajunAlfredoLove — we’d love to see your masterpiece!
