This Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet is a fun and hearty dish, packed with spices and juicy chicken. The bowtie pasta adds a playful twist, making it a favorite at dinner time!
Cooking this dish is like a mini party in your kitchen! I love how everything cooks in one pan. Less cleanup means more time to enjoy a hearty meal with family or friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this recipe, but thighs can also add more flavor. If you need a quick option, you could use shredded rotisserie chicken.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice mix makes the dish pop! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can easily make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper. Feel free to lessen the cayenne for milder heat.
Pasta: Bowtie pasta gives a fun shape! You can swap it out for other short pastas like penne or fusilli if you prefer. Just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow peppers add color and sweetness. Try using green bell peppers for a more robust flavor, or go for some heat with jalapeños if you like it spicy!
Cheese: I love using cheddar for its creaminess, but pepper jack can take it up a notch. You can also skip cheese altogether for a lighter version.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Pasta in One Pan?
Cooking pasta in the same skillet as your other ingredients is great for flavor and cleanup! The trick is to ensure you have enough liquid and keep an eye on the timing.
- Use enough chicken broth and cream for the pasta to absorb as it cooks. This’ll infuse the pasta with flavor!
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Pasta usually takes around 12-15 mins, but check for doneness.
- Don’t worry if it looks a bit saucy at first; it will thicken as it cooks and once you add cheese!
With these tips, you’ll have a creamy and delicious Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta in no time! Enjoy your cooking!
Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 medium chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 1 small red bell pepper, diced
- 1 small yellow bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz (about 2 cups) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 ½ cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or pepper jack for extra kick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20-25 minutes to cook, making a total of about 30-35 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by tossing the bite-sized chicken pieces in Cajun seasoning until they are evenly coated. This will give your chicken a flavorful kick!
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully add the seasoned chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
Using the same skillet, add the diced red and yellow bell peppers. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re slightly softened. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell the garlic.
4. Add Pasta and Liquids:
Now it’s time to make it hearty! Stir in the bowtie pasta, chicken broth, and heavy cream into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the skillet and cook for about 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
5. Combine and Add Cheese:
Once the pasta is cooked, return your cooked chicken to the skillet. Mix everything together well. Then, sprinkle the shredded cheese over the mixture and stir until it melts into a creamy, dreamy dish. Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish your Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious, creamy, and spicy dish!
Dig in and enjoy your flavorful Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet!
Can I Use Whole Wheat Pasta Instead of Regular Bowtie Pasta?
Absolutely! Whole wheat pasta is a great healthier option and will still work well in this recipe. Just be aware that whole wheat pasta might take slightly longer to cook, so check for doneness a couple of minutes before the suggested cooking time.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, you can! If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using half-and-half or a mixture of milk and Greek yogurt for creaminess without the extra calories. Just whisk them together and add them to the skillet when combining ingredients.
How Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, simply replace the chicken with your choice of protein like chickpeas or tofu. Add some extra veggies like spinach or mushrooms for flavor and nutrition. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth as well.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or a little cream to help bring back the creaminess as it can thicken in the fridge.