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 rich flavors and creamy goodness. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, casual get-togethers, or any occasion that calls for comfort food. With tender chunks of chicken smothered in a cheesy garlic sauce served over bowtie pasta, it’s a meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This dish can be on your table in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich and creamy flavor: The combination of cheeses creates a luscious sauce that elevates the chicken and pasta to new heights.
• Customizable spice level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to suit your taste, whether you prefer mild or spicy.
• Perfect for meal prep: Leftovers are just as delicious, making this recipe great for lunches throughout the week.
• Kid-friendly: The cheesy flavor and fun pasta shape make it appealing to children and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta quickly and efficiently while ensuring it cooks evenly.
• Large skillet: Perfectly accommodates the chicken pieces and allows for easy mixing of ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Essential for stirring sauces without scratching your cookware.

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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
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Sauce

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

For the Pasta

• 10 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• cup reserved pasta water, optional, 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

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 the pasta and set aside, reserving a cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season chicken chunks with Cajun seasoning, onion powder, 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 for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
4. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium.
2. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter and minced garlic; cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream; stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese; stir until fully melted and smooth.
5. If the sauce is too thick, add 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 to skillet; spoon sauce over it.
3. Let everything simmer for about 3 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.
2. 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)

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

Serving Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce is all about presentation and enhancing the flavors. Here are some suggestions to elevate your dish during mealtime.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta.
• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce, croutons, and a creamy dressing provide a delightful crunch alongside the rich chicken.

Add Some Bread

• Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter will soak up any leftover sauce on your plate.
• Herb Focaccia: A fluffy focaccia with herbs adds texture and a savory flavor that works well with the dish.

Garnish for Presentation

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the dish for a pop of color and freshness.
• Extra Parmesan: Serve with additional grated Parmesan on the side for those who love extra cheesy goodness.

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

To make your Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta truly stand out, consider these helpful tips.

• Bold Seasoning: Ensure you season both the chicken and sauce generously to enhance flavor.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and quality cheeses for optimal taste and texture.
• Thicken the Sauce Correctly: If your sauce is too thin, add more cheese or a bit of reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: This helps prevent it from becoming mushy when mixed with the sauce.
• Sauté Garlic Properly: Cook garlic just until fragrant to avoid bitterness in your sauce.

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

Enhancing your meal experience can be achieved by pairing Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with delicious side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy potatoes infused with garlic complement the savory chicken beautifully.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a nutritious balance to the richness of the dish.
3. Roasted Asparagus: Crispy asparagus drizzled with olive oil brings an elegant touch to your plate.
4. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
5. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies grilled to perfection add a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with vegetables adds healthy grains to your meal without overpowering it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can sometimes be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when making Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce.

• Not seasoning the chicken properly: Always ensure you season your chicken well before cooking. A good blend of spices enhances the flavor significantly. Don’t rush this step; let the seasoning sit for a few minutes if possible.

• Overcooking the pasta: It’s crucial to follow package instructions for pasta cooking time. Cooking pasta beyond al dente can make it mushy, ruining the texture of your dish.

• Using too much heat while cooking chicken: High heat can cause the chicken to brown too quickly on the outside while remaining undercooked inside. Use medium-high heat for even cooking.

• Skipping reserved pasta water: This water contains starch that helps thicken your sauce. If your sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water for a creamier texture.

• Not letting the sauce simmer long enough: Allowing the sauce to simmer lets the flavors meld beautifully. Skipping this step can result in a bland sauce.

• Forgetting to garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds not only color but also freshness to your dish. Don’t skip this final touch!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
• Allow to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

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, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals (1-2 minutes), stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water if necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use different types of pasta?

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

How do I make this recipe spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or include red pepper flakes to taste.

Can I substitute heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter option, but it may slightly change the texture and richness of your sauce.

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

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze for longer storage.

What other proteins can I use?

You can easily swap chicken for turkey, beef, or lamb based on your preference!

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce is not just delicious but also versatile. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, it’s bound to impress everyone at the table. Feel free to customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels according to taste. Enjoy every cheesy bite!