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 combines tender chicken with rich flavors and creamy goodness. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe stands out for its easy preparation and comforting taste. The blend of cheeses creates a luxurious sauce that coats the bowtie pasta beautifully, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and three types of cheese ensures a deliciously creamy experience.
• Versatile Meal: Serve it as a main course or pair it with a side salad for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the cheesy goodness, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings.
• Customizable: Adjust the spices to suit your taste or add vegetables for extra nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Ideal for searing chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop ingredients quickly.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures clean cuts on chicken and vegetables.

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 and Pasta

• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded Velveeta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• 10 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 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

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: Sear 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 about 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 along with minced garlic. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream while stirring. Bring to a gentle simmer before adding Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously 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, gently tossing to coat thoroughly. Return the chicken to the skillet and spoon sauce over it. Let everything simmer together 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. Enjoy your delicious Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta!

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. Here are some creative ways to dish it out and impress your guests.

Family Style

• Serve the chicken and pasta in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere at the table.

Individual Plates

• Plate the creamy pasta on one side with the golden chicken on top. Drizzle extra sauce over both for added flavor and presentation.

With Fresh Bread

• Pair the dish with crusty garlic bread or dinner rolls. The bread will soak up the creamy sauce, making each bite even more delightful.

Garnished

• Top each serving with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. This adds a pop of color and enhances the overall flavor.

With a Side Salad

• Complement your meal with a light green salad dressed in vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad balances out the richness of the creamy pasta.

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

Perfecting this dish involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to enhance your cooking experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh garlic and herbs significantly improve flavor compared to dried versions.
• Cook Chicken in Batches – If your skillet is crowded, cook chicken in batches for even browning.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Modify Cajun seasoning according to your preference for heat; taste as you go.
• Thicken or Thin Sauce – Use reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick; add more cream if it’s too thin.
• Experiment with Cheese – Feel free to swap cheeses based on availability or personal preference for varied flavors.
• Let It Rest – Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after cooking; it lets flavors meld together better.

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

Pairing side dishes with Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken can enhance your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some tasty suggestions.

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice, garlic bread pairs perfectly by soaking up that delicious creamy sauce.

2. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the main dish.

3. Steamed Broccoli
   Bright green steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition while balancing flavors with its slight bitterness.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized complements the savory notes of chicken and pasta nicely.

5. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw offers a tangy crunch that contrasts well with creamy textures in this dish.

6. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus provides an elegant touch while adding health benefits to your meal.

7. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet corn brings a burst of sweetness that pairs beautifully with cheesy flavors; grill or boil it for perfect preparation.

8. Rice Pilaf
   Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned with herbs serves as a great base for soaking up any extra sauce left on your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce can be a delightful experience, but some common mistakes can detract from your dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to dryness. Aim for golden brown and cooked through, usually about 4-5 minutes per side.
• Ignoring the Pasta Instructions: Not following the package instructions for cooking pasta can result in mushy or undercooked noodles. Always check for the al dente texture.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Missing out on seasoning can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to season the chicken and taste the sauce as you go.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Using old garlic or stale spices can ruin the dish’s flavor. Always opt for fresh ingredients whenever possible.
• Forgetting to Reserve Pasta Water: This water is essential for adjusting sauce consistency. Always set aside some before draining your pasta.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The dish can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

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 stored for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring between sessions.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce spicier?

You can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add crushed red pepper flakes to enhance the spice level.

Can I use different types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works well, feel free to substitute with penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.

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

Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze it for later use.

Can I use other cheeses instead of Velveeta?

Yes! You can substitute Velveeta with cheddar cheese or any creamy cheese that melts well.

Final Thoughts

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce is an indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture combined with rich flavors makes it a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms, or swapping out cheeses according to your preference. Enjoy experimenting!