Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce is a delightful dish that’s perfect for family dinners, date nights, or any special occasion. This recipe combines tender chicken with rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta for a satisfying meal. The harmonious blend of flavors makes it a standout on your dinner table, ensuring everyone will be asking for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy – This dish comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Creamy and Flavorful – The combination of cheeses and garlic butter creates a rich sauce that elevates the chicken and pasta.
• Versatile Ingredients – You can easily swap out the chicken for turkey or beef, tailoring the dish to your preferences.
• Great for Meal Prep – This recipe stores well in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for leftovers throughout the week.
• Kid-Friendly – With its cheesy goodness and fun pasta shape, even picky eaters will love this meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process and enhance your experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pasta strainer

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot – Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet – Provides a large surface area for browning chicken and making the creamy sauce.
• Cutting board – Offers a safe surface for chopping ingredients while keeping your workspace organized.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick chunks
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning(or more for extra spice)
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Velveeta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Pasta

• 10 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• ½ cup reserved pasta water(optional, for thinning the sauce if needed)

For Garnish

• Fresh chopped parsley

How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente according to package instructions.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season chicken chunks with Cajun seasoning, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add chicken in a single layer; cook each side for about 5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
2. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter along with minced garlic; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream; stir gently.
4. Bring to a gentle simmer; add Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until fully melted and smooth.
5. If sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add cooked bowtie pasta to the sauce; gently toss to coat.
2. Return chicken back into skillet; spoon sauce over it.
3. Let everything simmer together for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Serve Your Dish

1. Top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese as desired.
2. Serve hot with creamy pasta on one side and golden chicken on the other.

Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce!

How to Serve Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

Serving Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce can elevate any meal. This dish is not only flavorful but also visually appealing, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings.

Pair with a Side Salad

• A crisp green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

Offer Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread on the side for a crunchy texture that balances the softness of the pasta.

Add Steamed Vegetables

• Brighten up your plate with some steamed broccoli or carrots, adding color and nutrition to your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh parsley or basil sprinkled on top enhances both the flavor and visual appeal of the dish.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Presenting the chicken and pasta in individual bowls makes serving easy and adds a personal touch to each plate.

How to Perfect Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

Perfecting this dish is all about timing and technique. Here are some tips to ensure it turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs will enhance flavor significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Aim for al dente pasta for the best texture; it will continue cooking when mixed with the sauce.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! Adjust spices according to your preference for heat and flavor.
• Let Cheese Melt Completely: Stir continuously until all cheese is fully melted into the sauce for a creamy consistency.
• Reserve Pasta Water Wisely: Use reserved pasta water sparingly; add just enough to achieve your desired sauce thickness.
• Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

Pairing side dishes with your main course can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent choices that complement Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce.

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted in garlic oil add elegance and flavor.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides a refreshing crunch alongside creamy pasta.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter offers a delightful contrast to rich flavors.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts seasoned with balsamic glaze bring earthy notes to your meal.
5. Quinoa Pilaf: A light quinoa dish mixed with herbs complements the richness of the chicken without overshadowing it.
6. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds a tangy bite that balances out creamy sauces beautifully.
7. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Serve these sweet potatoes stuffed or plain for a wholesome addition that pairs well with chicken.
8. Grilled Zucchini: Lightly grilled zucchini slices provide a smoky flavor that enhances the overall dining experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially with a delicious dish like Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the chicken: This can lead to dry and tough meat. To avoid this, cook the chicken just until golden brown and no longer pink inside.
• Not seasoning the pasta water: Failing to season the boiling water can result in bland pasta. Make sure to add salt to enhance the flavor of the pasta.
• Ignoring sauce thickness: If your sauce is too thick, it won’t coat the pasta well. Always reserve a bit of pasta water to adjust the consistency as needed.
• Skimping on cheese: Less cheese means less creaminess! Use generous amounts of Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan for a rich flavor.
• Rushing the simmering step: A gentle simmer helps meld flavors together. Don’t rush this process; let it simmer slowly for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure it’s cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• For best results, let it cool first before freezing.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low-medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making this dish.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version of Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap bowtie pasta with any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust cooking time according to the package instructions.

How do I make it spicier?

To spice things up, add more Cajun seasoning or incorporate diced jalapeños into the mix for extra heat!

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Yes! Substitute chicken with grilled vegetables or chickpeas and use plant-based cheeses for a delicious vegetarian version of this recipe.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or alter the spice level to suit your tastes. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its creamy goodness!