11/03/2025
Cajun Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Three-Cheese Alfredo Sauce
Ingredients:
3 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
18 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
1 ½ tbsp olive oil
6 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
6 cloves garlic, minced
2 ¼ tsp Cajun seasoning
¾ tsp smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper, to taste
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (for crusting the chicken)
2 ¼ cups heavy cream
1 ⅛ cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 ½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 ⅛ cups grated Parmesan cheese (for the sauce)
3 oz cream cheese, softened
¾ tsp Italian seasoning
¾ tsp dried basil
⅜ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Chopped parsley or dried herbs, for garnish
Directions:
1. Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, then drain and set aside.
2. Place the sliced chicken in a bowl. Season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle the ¾ cup Parmesan over the chicken and gently press to help it cling.
3. Heat the olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 4–6 minutes, turning occasionally, until lightly browned and cooked through.
4. During the last minute of cooking, add 1 tablespoon of butter and half of the minced garlic. Stir so the chicken gets coated in the garlic butter. Remove chicken to a plate and keep warm.
5. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the remaining garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
6. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
7. Add the softened cream cheese and stir until smooth. Slowly add the mozzarella, cheddar, and the remaining Parmesan, stirring until the sauce is thick, creamy, and velvety.
8. Season with Italian seasoning, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like a touch of heat. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
9. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss so every piece is coated. Let it sit over low heat for about a minute to help the sauce cling to the pasta.
10. Serve the pasta topped with the garlic-Parmesan chicken. Finish with parsley for color and freshness.
Cooking Time: 30–35 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: ~830 per serving