Creamy Velveeta Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Cajun Parmesan Sauce

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy, and spicy. The Velveeta cheese melts down into a smooth, velvety sauce that clings to the bowtie pasta, while parmesan adds depth and sharpness. Cajun-seasoned chicken adds a flavorful kick, creating a bold and balanced dish. It’s easy to make, great for busy nights, and delicious enough to serve for guests or special occasions.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Cajun seasoning
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Garlic (minced)
• Bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• Velveeta cheese (cubed)
• Parmesan cheese (grated)
• Heavy cream or whole milk
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season generously with Cajun seasoning.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt butter. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the Velveeta cubes and stir until melted and smooth.
6. Add the grated parmesan cheese and continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly.
7. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix until coated in the sauce.
9. Add the cooked bowtie pasta and stir until everything is evenly combined and heated through.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 to 6 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Spice control: Adjust the Cajun seasoning for more or less heat based on preference.
• Veggie additions: Add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra texture and flavor.
• Cheese blend: Mix in sharp cheddar or Monterey Jack for additional cheesy layers.
• Low-carb version: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or steamed cauliflower.
• Smoky flavor: Add a dash of smoked paprika for an earthy, smoky undertone.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat with a splash of milk or cream to maintain creaminess.
Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each, until evenly heated.

FAQs

What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal. Thighs offer more moisture and flavor.

Is Velveeta necessary?

Velveeta gives the sauce its signature creamy texture, but you can substitute with cream cheese or a different processed cheese if preferred.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare everything ahead and reheat before serving. Just store the sauce and pasta separately for best results.

How spicy is Cajun seasoning?

It ranges from mild to moderately spicy. Adjust the amount used based on your heat preference.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, whole milk will work, though the sauce may be slightly thinner. For best results, use heavy cream.

How do I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?

Let it simmer longer or add a bit more grated parmesan, which helps thicken naturally.

What’s the best way to cut the Velveeta?

Cube it while cold—it melts more evenly that way when added to the hot cream.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing isn’t recommended due to the dairy-heavy sauce, which may separate upon thawing.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free bowtie pasta and check that your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

What sides go well with this dish?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables are great complements.

Conclusion

Creamy Velveeta Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Cajun Parmesan Sauce is a rich, satisfying dish that delivers bold flavor and creamy texture in every bite. With tender Cajun chicken, silky cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, it’s a complete comfort meal that’s sure to become a regular favorite in your kitchen. Easy to make and even easier to love, this recipe is perfect for any night you want to impress without the fuss.

Creamy Velveeta Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Cajun Parmesan Sauce

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Creamy Velveeta Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Cajun Parmesan Sauce is a rich and indulgent pasta dish featuring Cajun-spiced chicken, bowtie pasta, and a velvety cheese sauce made with Velveeta and parmesan. It’s creamy, bold, and perfect for a comforting meal.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 to 6 servings
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Halal

Ingredients

1. 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2. 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
3. 1 tablespoon olive oil
4. 2 tablespoons butter
5. 3 cloves garlic, minced
6. 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
7. 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
8. 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
9. 1 cup heavy cream or whole milk
10. Salt and black pepper, to taste
11. 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with Cajun seasoning.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and melt butter in the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Pour in the cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Velveeta cubes and stir until melted and smooth.
5. Stir in grated parmesan cheese and cook until sauce thickens slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat in the sauce.
8. Add the cooked pasta and mix until evenly combined and heated through.
9. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.

Notes

• Use thighs instead of breasts for a juicier option.
• Adjust Cajun seasoning for more or less spice.
• Use cream cheese or processed cheese as a Velveeta substitute.
• To thicken the sauce, simmer longer or add more parmesan.
• Best served fresh; dairy sauces may separate if frozen.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 720
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 950mg
• Fat: 42g
• Saturated Fat: 23g
• Unsaturated Fat: 17g
• Trans Fat: 0.5g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 38g
• Cholesterol: 155mg