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–+ servings
Cajun Garlic Alfredo

Cajun Garlic Alfredo

Discover the perfect blend of creamy Alfredo and zesty Cajun spices in this Garlic Cajun Chicken Bowtie Alfredo, a family favorite.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 600
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 12 oz bowtie pasta
  • 1 lb boneless chicken breast cut into bite-size pieces
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter divided
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 3 oz Velveeta cheese cubed
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 oz cream cheese softened
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Large skillet
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk or spatula
  • Colander

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until golden-brown, about 7-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine and scrape up any browned bits. Lower the heat and add the Velveeta and cream cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
  6. Add the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, whisking until the sauce thickens. Sprinkle in the garlic powder and adjust seasoning to taste.
  7. Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce until coated, then add the seared chicken back and stir to combine. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
  8. Garnish with chopped parsley and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 2gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 350mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or half-and-half towards the end of cooking. Adjust the Cajun seasoning and add red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier dish. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat with a bit of milk or cream if needed to keep it creamy. Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for different variations.
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