This Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet is a fun and tasty meal! With spicy chicken, colorful veggies, and delicious bowtie pasta, it’s a feast for both your eyes and your taste buds.
The best part? It all cooks in one pan, making clean-up so easy. I love how quick it is to whip up. Just toss everything together and enjoy an exciting dinner any night of the week!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best, but you could also use thighs for a juicier option. If you’re vegetarian, try substituting with chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost!
Cajun Seasoning: This gives the dish its signature flavor. If you don’t have it, mix paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and dried thyme for a quick homemade blend.
Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle is a great choice here, but any short pasta will do. Penne or rotini are also excellent alternatives if you need to switch it up. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can also be used!
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk. Just be cautious as non-dairy milks may change the flavor slightly.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for the flavor punch it adds, but you can use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a dairy-free cheese option to suit your needs!
How Can I Ensure Perfectly Cooked Pasta?
Cooking pasta might seem simple, but it’s easy to miss the mark. Here are some tips to make sure your pasta turns out just right:
- Always use plenty of salted water for boiling pasta. This adds flavor right from the start.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time; it’s usually around 10-12 minutes for bowtie pasta. Test a piece for doneness a minute or two before the indicated time.
- Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking, especially in a skillet dish.
Don’t forget: after draining, save a cup of pasta water! It helps in adjusting the sauce’s consistency if needed. Happy cooking!
How to Make Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cups bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This whole meal takes about 30 minutes: 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes for cooking. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a busy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning until they’re well coated. Then, add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re browned and cooked through. Once done, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion. Sauté it for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes softened. Then, add the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional 30 seconds until it starts smelling fragrant.
3. Cook the Pasta:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the heavy cream and then add the bowtie pasta. Cover the skillet and cook for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and fully cooked.
4. Add Tomatoes and Chicken:
Once the pasta is cooked, add the halved cherry tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes just to warm them up. Then, return the cooked chicken to the skillet and give everything a good stir to combine.
5. Mix in the Cheese and Serve:
Finally, sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture and stir until it’s all melted and creamy. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed. If you like, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and serve warm.
Enjoy your delicious one-pan Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta Skillet! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Different Pasta in This Recipe?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works great, you can substitute it with any short pasta like penne, rotini, or even shells. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly based on the type of pasta you choose.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can create a quick homemade blend using equal parts paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and dried oregano. Mix these spices together for a similar flavor profile!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth to help bring back the creaminess.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! To make it dairy-free, substitute the heavy cream with a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives. Just be aware that flavor and texture might slightly differ!
