Go Back
–+ servings
Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta

Discover the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Garlic Chicken Pasta featuring a rich mozzarella cheese sauce and tender Cajun chicken.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 12 minutes
Total Time 42 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb chicken breasts boneless, skinless, cut into strips
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 5 cloves garlic minced
  • 12 oz bowtie pasta
  • 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1.5 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese freshly grated
  • 4 oz Velveeta cheese cubed (optional for extra creaminess)
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley chopped, plus more for garnish

Equipment

  • Large pot
  • Whisk
  • Tongs
  • Large skillet
  • Serving plates

Method
 

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Drain and drizzle lightly with olive oil, then set aside.
  2. Pat chicken dry with paper towels. Season with Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and sear for about 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
  3. Melt remaining tablespoon of butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Pour in chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Let simmer for 1 to 2 minutes. Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream, adding Velveeta cubes if using. Whisk until melted and smooth, then gradually stir in mozzarella and Parmesan until thick and creamy.
  5. Add garlic powder and chopped parsley to the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning. Add cooked pasta and toss until coated. Let rest for 12 minutes over low heat.
  6. Serve by spooning pasta on one side of the plate and seared garlic chicken on the other, drizzling with sauce and garnishing with parsley and extra Parmesan.

Nutrition

Calories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 38gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 18gCholesterol: 150mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 600IUVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 320mgIron: 2mg

Notes

To enhance flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the sauce after sautéing the garlic. Use high-quality Parmesan cheese for the best results. Don’t overcook the pasta; it should be al dente to complement the creamy sauce. Consider adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli for a nutritious twist. If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of cream or milk when reheating to maintain creaminess.
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!