Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce is pure comfort food with a spicy kick. This dish combines tender blackened chicken breast, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, and a rich, garlicky cheese sauce that clings to every bite. It’s one of those recipes that hits all the notes: creamy, spicy, savory, and a little smoky.

Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or looking to impress dinner guests with minimal effort, this pasta delivers big flavor in under 45 minutes. It’s a weeknight dinner hero that also feels special enough for a cozy Friday night in.

What Makes the Cajun Chicken So Flavorful?

The secret lies in the homemade Cajun seasoning blend—a bold mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, and black pepper. When you coat the chicken generously before searing it in a hot skillet, the spices create a crust that locks in moisture and brings smoky heat to the dish. Using cast iron or a heavy-bottomed pan will give you the best results.

Ingredients for the Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce

Chicken Breasts: Lean, juicy protein that absorbs the Cajun spices beautifully.

Cajun Seasoning: A mix of smoky, spicy, and herbal spices that transform the chicken.

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): Its shape holds onto the sauce, making every bite flavorful.

Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious texture and richness to the cheese sauce.

Cream Cheese: Helps thicken the sauce and adds a tangy, creamy layer.

Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese: For that stretchy, melty, savory magic.

Garlic: Freshly minced for a robust flavor that infuses the entire sauce.

Butter: Used to sauté the garlic and enhance richness.

Olive Oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.

Salt & Pepper: Essential to balance all the bold flavors.

Parsley (optional): Adds a touch of freshness and color to finish the dish.

How To Make the Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Cheese Sauce

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Generously coat both sides of the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning. In a hot skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and let rest before slicing.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 3: Make the Garlic Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add butter and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant (about 1 minute). Stir in cream cheese and let it melt gently. Add heavy cream and mix until smooth.

Step 4: Add the Cheeses

Stir in shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring until melted and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Slice the rested Cajun chicken and lay it on top. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and enjoy that creamy, cheesy, Cajun-spiced goodness!

Serving and Storing Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

This dish is best served hot and fresh, straight from the skillet when the cheese is still gooey and the Cajun spices are bold. Use a wide, shallow bowl to show off the seared chicken and cheesy bowtie pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley or a pinch of extra Cajun seasoning for color and pop.

To store leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s silky texture. Avoid microwaving too long or the cheese may become grainy.

What to Serve With Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Crispy and buttery, perfect for scooping up extra cheese sauce.

Simple Arugula Salad

Adds peppery freshness to balance the rich pasta.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Sweet and smoky flavors complement the Cajun spice.

Steamed Broccoli

A mild veggie that soaks up the sauce beautifully.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Their caramelized edges offer a great contrast in flavor and texture.

Southern-Style Green Beans

Adds a classic homestyle side with a soft, savory bite.

Sparkling Lemon Water

Helps cleanse the palate between bites of creamy, spicy pasta.

Want More Cheesy Chicken Pasta Dinners?

If this Creamy Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta hit the spot, here are more saucy and satisfying dishes to bookmark:

Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for a rich skillet dinner ready in 30 minutes.
Marry Me Chicken Pasta brings bold flavor and creamy sun-dried tomato sauce.
Cheesesteak Tortellini is perfect when you want that gooey cheese factor in every bite.
Creamy Beef and Shells is a cozy favorite with big comforting flavors.
Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for quick weeknight wins with pantry staples.