Description
A creamy, cheesy delight made with tender chicken and bowtie pasta enveloped in a warm garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 tbsp butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 lb bowtie pasta
- 4 cups heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus more for topping
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt to taste
- Optional: Crushed red pepper flakes for extra spice
Instructions
- Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Add the softened cream cheese and whisk until smooth and melted.
- Stir in the mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth, creamy, and cheesy. Season with salt to taste. Add crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
- Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the cheesy cream sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
- Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with additional shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Feel free to mix up the cheeses or add veggies like sautéed spinach for added flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg