Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce is the perfect dish for any occasion. This hearty meal combines tender chicken with al dente pasta, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce that is bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy family night, this recipe will impress everyone at your table. Its unique blend of spices and cheesy goodness makes it a standout choice for comfort food lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can serve a delicious meal that’s sure to satisfy.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic butter and three types of cheese creates an irresistible taste experience.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe fits any dining scenario.
• Kid-Friendly: With its cheesy appeal and familiar ingredients, even the pickiest eaters will love it.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required as everything cooks in one skillet!

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delightful recipe, make sure you have the right tools on hand. A few essential kitchen gadgets will help streamline your cooking process and ensure success.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Serving spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently while providing ample space for even cooking.
• Skillet: A sturdy skillet allows for proper searing of chicken and smooth sauce preparation in one pan.

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

For the Seasoning

• 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 Creamy 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
• Reserved pasta water, optional (for thinning the sauce if needed)

Garnish

• Fresh chopped parsley

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 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:
1. Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes until golden brown.
2. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

In the same skillet:
1. Reduce heat to medium.
2. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter and minced garlic.
3. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Create Creamy Cheese Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and stir:
1. Bring to a gentle simmer.
2. Add Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
3. Stir until fully melted and smooth; if too thick, add reserved pasta water as needed.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add cooked bowtie pasta to the sauce:
1. Gently toss to coat.
2. Return chicken to skillet, spooning sauce over it.
3. Let everything simmer for about 3-5 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.

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 Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce can elevate your dining experience. The combination of flavors and textures creates a delightful dish that is perfect for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal.

Add Fresh Vegetables

• Include steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach to add color and nutrients.

Pair with a Green Salad

• A light mixed greens salad with a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the creamy sauce.

Top with Crusty Bread

• Serve slices of toasted garlic bread on the side for dipping into the creamy sauce.

Consider a Side of Rice

• Fluffy white or brown rice can soak up extra sauce, making every bite delicious.

Garnish with Extra Cheese

• Sprinkle additional Parmesan cheese on top before serving for an extra cheesy touch.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Presenting in individual bowls makes for an attractive table setting and personalizes each serving.

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

To ensure your Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce turns out perfectly, follow these helpful tips.

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley enhances flavor and adds brightness to the dish.

• Monitor cooking times: Ensure chicken is cooked through but avoid overcooking for tenderness.

• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go and modify the spices according to your preference for heat.

• Choose quality cheese: Using high-quality cheeses will improve the overall taste and texture of the sauce.

• Reserve pasta water wisely: Keep some pasta water on hand to reach your desired sauce consistency without thinning it too much.

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

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

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy, buttery garlic bread complements the creamy sauce beautifully.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and tanginess to balance the richness.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus provides a fresh, earthy contrast.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: These roasted vegetables offer a nice bitterness that pairs well with cheesy dishes.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity to cut through the creaminess.
6. Herbed Quinoa: Flavored quinoa is a healthy option that adds texture without overpowering the main dish.
7. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with grains or veggies make a vibrant addition to your plate.
8. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brings sweetness that can balance out savory flavors while being a fun finger food option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce, avoid these common pitfalls.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to coat the chicken chunks in Cajun and Italian seasonings for a flavorful dish.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the bowtie pasta too long can make it mushy. Always follow the package instructions for al dente cooking to maintain the perfect texture.
• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water means missing out on a great way to adjust sauce thickness. Always set aside a cup of reserved water before draining.
• Rushing the sauce: Cooking the sauce too quickly can prevent the cheeses from melting smoothly. Allow time for simmering to achieve a creamy consistency without lumps.
• Neglecting garnishes: Skipping fresh parsley or extra Parmesan can diminish presentation and flavor. Don’t forget these finishing touches for an appealing dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of reserved pasta water and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While bowtie pasta works well, you can substitute it with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To increase spiciness, add more Cajun seasoning or incorporate red pepper flakes into the sauce for an extra kick.

Can I use low-fat cream?

You can use low-fat cream; however, it may affect the creaminess of the sauce. For best results, full-fat cream is recommended.

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

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce is not just a delicious meal; it’s also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding vegetables like spinach or broccoli or adjusting spices to suit your taste. Try this recipe today, and enjoy its rich flavors that everyone will love!