This Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet is a one-pan wonder! With tender chicken, bowtie pasta, and a zesty Cajun spice blend, it’s a meal that brings big flavors in no time.
It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something tasty without a lot of cleanup. I love how the pasta absorbs all the yummy sauce! Don’t forget to sprinkle on some cheese—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this dish due to their quick cooking time. If you prefer, you can use thighs for more juicy flavor or even shrimp for a different twist!
Cajun Seasoning: This blend is key for that authentic flavor. If you don’t have any, you can make your own with paprika, cayenne, oregano, and garlic powder. Adjust the heat to your liking!
Pasta: Bowtie (farfalle) is fun and holds the sauce well, but you can swap it with penne or fusilli if that’s what you have on hand. They all work fine in this recipe!
Heavy Cream: This creates a rich sauce, but you could substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk for a lighter option, depending on your dietary preferences. Just note it might vary the texture a bit!
How Do I Cook Pasta Perfectly in a Skillet?
Cooking the pasta directly in the skillet along with the sauce is a great technique for flavor! Here are some tips:
- Make sure to add enough liquid (chicken broth and cream). This helps the pasta cook evenly.
- Bring the liquid to a simmer before covering. This ensures the pasta cooks well.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to help absorb all those delicious flavors!
- Check the pasta a couple of minutes before the end of the cooking time to ensure it doesn’t overcook. Al dente is best!
Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 8 oz (225g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take you about 30 minutes from start to finish! It’s quick and easy, making it perfect for busy weeknights. You’ll love how fast you can whip up this flavorful dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Chicken:
Start by mixing the chicken pieces with the Cajun seasoning in a bowl until they’re well coated. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until it’s golden brown and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, toss in the diced onion and bell peppers. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften. Then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until you smell the great aroma!
3. Combine Pasta and Liquids:
Now it’s time to add the uncooked bowtie pasta into the skillet. Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream over the pasta, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a simmer—this is where all the good flavors start mingling!
4. Cook the Pasta:
Cover the skillet and let it cook on medium heat for about 12-15 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the pasta from sticking and to help it absorb the flavors. Keep an eye on it; you want the pasta tender but not mushy!
5. Mix in Chicken and Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and makes the sauce nice and creamy. Taste it and add salt and pepper as needed to make it just right!
6. Garnish and Serve:
Take it off the heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley and more Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve your delicious Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta hot, right from the skillet, and enjoy every bite!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes! If using frozen chicken, be sure to thaw it completely before cooking. The best methods are to leave it in the fridge overnight or submerge it in cold water in a sealed bag until thawed. Pat dry before seasoning to ensure even cooking!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! If you want more heat, consider adding extra Cajun seasoning, or include a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken before cooking. You can also toss in some diced jalapeños along with the bell peppers for an extra kick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the microwave or warm it gently on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! This recipe is versatile. You can add other veggies like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms. Just sauté them alongside the onion and bell peppers for the best results! Adjust the cooking time as needed for different vegetables.
