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Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta

  • Author: jennaharpereats
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten-Free Option Available

Description

A quick and flavorful Cajun Chicken Bowtie Pasta with seared chicken, a silky butter sauce, lemon, and broccoli.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Chicken breasts, boneless skinless (about 2 medium)
  • 12 oz Bowtie (farfalle) pasta
  • 2 cups Broccoli florets
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 6 tbsp Butter, unsalted
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp Garlic powder
  • 1 Lemon — zest and juice of
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp Paprika, smoked
  • 1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes
  • 1 tbsp Chives, fresh, chopped
  • 2 tbsp Parsley, fresh, chopped
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup Reserved pasta water
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente. Before draining, scoop out and set aside 1/2 cup of the pasta water. Drain and keep the pasta warm.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil. Pat chicken dry and season both sides with salt, black pepper, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until a golden crust forms and the center reaches 160–165°F, about 6–7 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove the chicken to a plate and let it rest for a few minutes.
  3. In the same skillet, add the broccoli florets. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they are bright and just tender, about 3–4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Turn the heat low. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Stir in the reserved pasta water, lemon juice, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Whisk or stir until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened. Add chives and parsley and mix to combine.
  5. Return the rested chicken to the skillet and slice it against the grain. Toss the sliced chicken in the sauce so each piece soaks up flavor. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce seems tight, add a splash more reserved pasta water to loosen it.
  6. Plate immediately and sprinkle with grated Parmesan. Serve hot.

Notes

For a dairy-free version, replace butter with a neutral oil and omit or replace Parmesan with a dairy-free alternative.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Cooking on Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Did you make this recipe?

Find it online: https://www.savorandsimple.com/cajun-chicken-bowtie-pasta/