A sizzling twist on comfort food, this Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Alfredo Sauce brings bold flavor to your dinner table. Juicy Cajun-spiced chicken is pan-seared to perfection and paired with bowtie pasta tossed in a luscious Alfredo sauce, all tied together with a cheesy garlic kick. Whether you’re serving it for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is indulgent yet approachable.

What makes this dish special is its balance: the creamy Alfredo base is rich but not overpowering, while the Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of heat. Every bite gives you that satisfying cheesy pasta bite with golden-seared chicken that bursts with garlic flavor and spice.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in Alfredo Sauce

Bold flavor from the Cajun-seasoned chicken without being overwhelmingly spicy.
Creamy Alfredo sauce with a buttery, garlicky richness.
Cheesy goodness that clings to every bowtie noodle.
Weeknight friendly, ready in under an hour with pantry staples.
Crowd-pleaser, perfect for potlucks, date nights, or feeding a hungry family.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To nail this dish with ease, make sure to have the right tools at your side:

Cast iron skillet or heavy-duty pan: Essential for achieving that perfectly seared crust on the chicken.
Large pot: For boiling your bowtie pasta without sticking or clumping.
Colander: Drains the pasta quickly while retaining heat and texture.
Whisk and sauce pan: Necessary for crafting the Alfredo sauce, ensuring a smooth and creamy finish.
Sharp chef’s knife: To slice the chicken cleanly and evenly after cooking.

Prepping everything ahead of time (mise en place) is key. Dice your garlic, measure your seasonings, and shred your cheese before you begin. That way, everything flows together seamlessly when it’s time to cook.

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

Chicken breasts: The star protein, tender and juicy when seared with Cajun spices.
Cajun seasoning: Brings the bold, smoky heat that gives this dish its Southern flair.
Bowtie pasta (farfalle): Holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully with its shape.
Heavy cream: Forms the rich base of the Alfredo sauce.
Fresh garlic: Infuses deep, aromatic flavor throughout the sauce.
Butter: Adds richness and helps meld all the flavors together.
Parmesan cheese: Brings salty, nutty notes and makes the Alfredo irresistibly cheesy.
Mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully into the sauce for extra creaminess.
Olive oil: Helps sear the chicken while locking in flavor.
Salt and pepper: For seasoning to taste and balancing the dish.

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

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Rub Cajun seasoning generously over both sides of the chicken breasts. Heat olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and let rest before slicing.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce

In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Whisk in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses until the sauce becomes creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta into the Alfredo sauce, stirring until the noodles are well-coated in cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Assemble the Dish

Slice the seared chicken into strips. Plate the pasta and top with chicken slices. Garnish with a pinch of parsley or extra Parmesan if desired.

Serving and Storing This Flavor-Packed Pasta

This pasta is best served warm, fresh off the stove, when the sauce is silky and the chicken is juicy. Pair it with garlic bread or a crisp side salad for a complete meal. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce before microwaving or warming on the stove.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or fettuccine all work well with Alfredo sauce.

Is there a substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk with a tablespoon of flour to thicken, though the richness will be reduced.

How spicy is this dish?

The heat is mild to medium depending on the Cajun blend. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and Alfredo sauce a day in advance. Reheat gently before serving.

What protein alternatives can I use?

Shrimp, sausage, or tofu all make great substitutes depending on your preferences.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Kick?

If this Cheesy Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta won your heart, try these next:

Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for a smoky, hearty twist.
Honey Pepper Chicken Mac and Cheese if you’re craving sweet and heat.
Ultimate Cheesy Chicken Spaghetti for that gooey cheese pull everyone loves.
One Pot Smoky Chipotle Cheesy Chicken Pasta with bold spice and minimal cleanup.
Golden Crispy Chicken with Parmesan Mushroom Sauce for a creamy, earthy upgrade.

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Let me know in the comments how your version turned out! Did you use extra cheese? Swap in shrimp? I love hearing your delicious twists. Questions are welcome too—let’s cook smarter, together!