There’s nothing quite like a comforting, creamy pasta dinner to lift your spirits, and this cheesy garlic butter chicken bowties recipe is exactly that kind of comfort food bliss. You’ll love the rich garlic butter sauce paired with tender chicken and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta for a meal that feels indulgent but comes together quickly.
If you’re looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough for guests, this cheesy garlic butter chicken is the perfect choice. The combination of garlic, butter, cheese, and juicy chicken creates a luscious sauce that coats every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich and creamy garlic butter sauce with melty cheese
- Juicy, tender chicken pieces seared to perfection
- Quick stovetop method ready in under 40 minutes
- Comfort food that’s also easy to make and family-friendly
- Uses simple pantry ingredients and accessible pasta
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to create your cheesy garlic butter chicken bowties. The fresh garlic and butter form the base of the sauce, while Parmesan cheese adds depth and creaminess.
- 8 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories (approx.): 650 per serving
How to Make Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties – Comfort Food Bliss in Every Bite!
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper, then add to the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
- Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, scraping any browned bits from the pan. Bring to a gentle simmer, then gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add crushed red pepper flakes if using. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Add the drained bowtie pasta and gently mix until everything is evenly combined and heated through, about 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top for a bright finish. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Tips for the Best Results
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it should stay juicy and tender inside with a nice golden sear outside.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the creamiest, richest sauce flavor.
- Reserve a little pasta water before draining to loosen the sauce if needed.
- For extra garlic punch, add a pinch of garlic powder along with the fresh garlic.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream but expect a thinner consistency.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it chills; stir in a splash of milk or cream before reheating to restore creaminess.
For longer storage, freeze in a suitable container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with penne, fusilli, or rotini. Just ensure to adjust cooking time according to the pasta type you choose.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish reheats well and can be portioned into meal prep containers for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the butter with dairy-free margarine and use a plant-based cream alternative, but the flavor and texture will be different from the original cheesy garlic butter chicken.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Add sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes when cooking the garlic butter sauce for extra nutrition and flavor without overpowering the dish.
