Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce is the ultimate comfort meal that combines succulent chicken with a rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or whenever you crave something deliciously satisfying. With its velvety texture and delightful flavors, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Explosion: The combination of garlic, buttery sauce, and three types of cheese creates a rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dish: It works well as a main course for family dinners or potlucks and can impress guests during gatherings.
• Kid-Friendly: The cheesy sauce and fun pasta shape make this dish appealing to children and adults alike.
• Comfort Food Classic: Enjoy the warm, hearty goodness that brings everyone together around the dinner table.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth experience in the kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Wooden spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta; it holds enough water for even cooking.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
• Measuring spoons: Ensure accuracy when adding spices and seasonings for optimal flavor.

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
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Pasta

• 10 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta

Optional

• Cup reserved pasta water, for thinning the sauce if needed
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

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

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

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

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken chunks with Cajun seasoning, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil and 2 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter and minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Cheeses

Add Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until fully melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Combine Everything

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

Step 6: Serve

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

Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: ~780 per serving (estimate)

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

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

Serving your Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce can elevate the dining experience. Here are some ideas to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Plating

• Use a large plate to separate the creamy pasta from the chicken for a beautiful presentation.
• Garnish with fresh parsley on both the chicken and pasta for a pop of color.

Pairing with Bread

• Serve with crusty garlic bread or dinner rolls to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Consider adding a sprinkle of herbs on the bread for extra flavor.

Adding Vegetables

• Complement your dish with steamed broccoli or green beans for a nutritious touch.
• Roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon adds brightness and balances richness.

Serving with Salad

• A simple side salad with mixed greens and vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast.
• Consider adding cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for crunch.

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

Perfecting your dish ensures it will be a hit every time. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking process.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs can make a significant difference in flavor compared to dried versions.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the Cajun seasoning amount according to your heat preference for a personalized touch.
• Monitor Cooking Times: Ensure chicken is cooked through but not overdone, which helps retain juiciness.
• Thicken or Thin Your Sauce: Adjust the sauce consistency by using reserved pasta water; add it gradually until desired thickness is achieved.

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

A well-rounded meal enhances enjoyment. Here are some great side dishes that pair perfectly with your cheesy chicken pasta.

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread provides a delightful crunch and complements the creamy sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with creamy dressing brings freshness alongside rich flavors.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Tossed in olive oil and roasted until crispy, they add earthy notes that balance the meal.
4. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and health benefits while providing a slight crunch.
5. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic can refresh the palate.
6. Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw offers a tangy contrast that cuts through the creaminess of the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, and even small errors can throw off your dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when preparing Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Always season your chicken generously before cooking.
• Overcooking the pasta: If you cook the bowtie pasta for too long, it may become mushy. Follow package instructions closely to ensure it’s al dente.
• Not letting the sauce simmer: Quickly stirring in cheese without allowing the sauce to simmer will affect its creaminess. Take your time to let it blend well for a smooth texture.
• Using low-quality cheese: Substituting with cheaper cheeses can impact flavor and meltability. Opt for good-quality cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan for best results.
• Neglecting to reserve pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water can make it difficult to adjust your sauce consistency. Always set aside a bit before draining.
• Rushing the final toss: Tossing everything together too quickly might not coat the pasta and chicken evenly. Gently mix them in the sauce for an even distribution.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re curious about making Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce, here are some commonly asked questions.

Can I use different types of pasta?

Yes! While bowtie pasta works great, feel free to substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer for this creamy dish.

How can I make it spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add red pepper flakes while cooking.

What can I use instead of Velveeta cheese?

You can replace Velveeta with another melty cheese like Gouda or Monterey Jack, but note that it may change the creaminess slightly.

How do I store leftovers from Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce is a delightful meal that brings comfort food vibes straight to your table. With its creamy texture and rich flavors, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for an extra nutritional boost. Give it a try today!