Get ready to meet your new weeknight favorite: Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Alfredo Sauce. This bold and creamy pasta dish brings restaurant-level flavor to your dinner table with tender, juicy Cajun-spiced chicken, a rich garlicky Alfredo, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta that clings to every bite of the velvety sauce. It’s cozy, hearty, and sure to make everyone ask for seconds.

What makes this recipe stand out? The blend of Cajun heat with the luxuriousness of Alfredo sauce is simply irresistible. The chicken is pan-seared for that golden crust, while the pasta soaks up every bit of the cheesy, garlicky goodness. Plus, it comes together in under 40 minutes—ideal for busy nights when you still want something comforting and homemade.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Bowtie pasta (also known as farfalle) is the best pick for this dish. Its unique shape holds sauce beautifully, capturing the creamy Alfredo and Cajun juices in every fold. However, penne or rotini can also be used as backups.

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

Chicken breasts: Sliced and seasoned with Cajun spices for that smoky, peppery crust.
Bowtie pasta: Holds the sauce well and gives a fun texture to the dish.
Garlic: The aromatic base that infuses the entire sauce.
Heavy cream: Makes the Alfredo sauce luxuriously rich.
Parmesan cheese: Adds saltiness and that classic Alfredo tang.
Butter: For sautéing and building the Alfredo base.
Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken to golden perfection.
Cajun seasoning: The flavor powerhouse that ties everything together.
Salt & pepper: To round out all the flavors.

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

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Boil water in a large pot, add salt, and cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

Slice chicken breasts into strips. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear chicken for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove from pan and keep warm.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant, scraping up any bits from the chicken.

Step 4: Build the Alfredo Sauce

Lower heat to medium and pour in heavy cream. Stir to combine, then slowly whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes until thickened.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat. Slice the Cajun chicken and place it on top or mix it in. Garnish with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

This pasta is best served hot, straight from the skillet or pan. Pair it with a crisp green salad and garlic bread to complete the meal. A chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon makes a refreshing sidekick.

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely and place in an airtight container. It keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and maintain its creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this dish?

It has a noticeable kick thanks to the Cajun seasoning, but it’s not overwhelming. You can always adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance.

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie or grilled chicken works well—just slice it and toss it in when combining everything.

Can I make this dairy-free?

You can substitute plant-based cream and cheese alternatives, but the result may not be as rich or flavorful.

What vegetables go well in this pasta?

Spinach, bell peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions and cook quickly in the Alfredo sauce.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Technically yes, but the sauce may separate. For best texture, consume within a few days fresh.

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?

You can, but homemade gives more control over flavor and creaminess.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you enjoyed this Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta, try these other hearty pasta favorites from Life with Jam:

For more meal inspiration and daily recipe updates, check out my Pinterest board: Life with Jam on Pinterest

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

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you spice it up even more? Did you add veggies or try it with shrimp instead of chicken?

I love seeing how others make these recipes their own. Share your tips or ask questions—let’s make weeknight meals a little more exciting together!

Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Alfredo Sauce

Author: Jam Scott
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Print Recipe

Description

Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Alfredo Sauce is a bold, creamy, and comforting pasta dinner featuring juicy Cajun-seasoned chicken, tender bowtie pasta, and a rich, garlicky Alfredo sauce. Perfect for cozy nights or weeknight meals when you want something truly satisfying in under 40 minutes.

Instructions

1. Boil salted water and cook bowtie pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. Slice chicken breasts into strips and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.

3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken on each side for 4-5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and keep warm.

4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds to 1 minute.

5. Lower the heat and pour in heavy cream. Stir to combine, then whisk in Parmesan cheese gradually. Let the sauce simmer and thicken.

6. Add cooked bowtie pasta to the sauce and stir to coat well.

7. Return sliced chicken to the skillet or arrange on top. Garnish with more Parmesan or parsley if desired.