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 and rich, creamy cheese sauce with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, special occasions, or whenever you crave comfort food. The creamy sauce and cheesy goodness make it a standout choice that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, butter, and three types of cheese creates a luscious sauce that enhances the chicken and pasta.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course, or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its creamy texture and cheesy flavor, this recipe is great for family gatherings or potlucks.
• Customizable: Adjust the spices to your preference; add more Cajun seasoning for a spicy kick or use different cheeses to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta evenly to achieve perfect al dente texture.
• Skillet: Ideal for searing the chicken and creating the rich buttery sauce all in one pan.

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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)
• 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
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

For the Pasta

• 10 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• ½ cup 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

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, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season chicken chunks with Cajun seasoning, onion powder, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
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. If too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually.

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 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Step 5: 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 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 is all about presentation and enhancing the dish’s flavors. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful meal, ensuring it impresses your guests.

Plating Suggestions

• Serve in shallow bowls for a rustic look, allowing the creamy sauce to pool around the pasta.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
• Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese right before serving to enhance the cheesy flavor.

Pairing with Vegetables

• Consider adding steamed broccoli or green beans on the side. Their crunch complements the creamy pasta perfectly.
• Roasted asparagus drizzled with olive oil brings an earthy flavor that balances the richness of the dish.

Accompanying Bread

• Offer slices of crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce. This adds a comforting touch.
• A warm baguette pairs well, providing a nice contrast to the creamy texture.

Beverage Ideas

• Serve with sparkling water infused with lemon or lime for a refreshing palate cleanser.
• A light herbal iced tea can also complement the meal without overpowering it.

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

Perfecting this recipe involves attention to detail and a few cooking tricks. Follow these tips to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices elevate the flavors significantly compared to dried ones.
• Control the heat: Cook chicken over medium-high heat for a perfect golden-brown crust while keeping it juicy inside.
• Monitor cheese melting: Stir in cheeses gradually and at low heat to prevent them from clumping or becoming greasy.
• Reserve pasta water: This starchy liquid is great for adjusting sauce consistency, so don’t forget to keep some aside!
• Taste as you go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking to ensure balanced flavors that suit your palate.
• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.

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

Complementing your Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce with side dishes enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted with herbs enhances freshness alongside rich pasta.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed in Caesar dressing provides a crunchy contrast to creamy pasta.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a refreshing pairing.
4. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter adds sweetness that balances savory flavors.
5. Spinach Salad: Lightly dressed spinach salad topped with nuts offers a nutritious side without overwhelming flavors.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful peppers stuffed with rice or quinoa provide an exciting visual element alongside the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking this delicious Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce can be straightforward, but there are a few common pitfalls.

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can lead to dry meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F and remove it from heat immediately.

• Not Salting the Pasta Water: Forgetting to salt your pasta water can result in bland pasta. Aim for a water-to-salt ratio that makes it taste like the sea for better flavor.

• Ignoring the Cheese Melting Process: Adding cheese too quickly can cause it to clump. Gradually stir in the cheeses while the sauce is at a gentle simmer to achieve a creamy consistency.

• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Using inferior cheese can affect texture and flavor. Opt for good quality cheeses like Velveeta and mozzarella to enhance your dish.

• Skipping the Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs add brightness and flavor. Don’t skip the parsley garnish; it elevates the dish significantly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• This dish will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

• You can freeze this meal for up to 2-3 months.
• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in short intervals, stirring in between until warmed evenly.
• Stovetop: Heat on low in a skillet, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the recipe.

Can I use other types of pasta instead of bowtie?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer will work well with this cheesy sauce. Just adjust cooking time as necessary.

How can I make this recipe healthier?

Consider using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta and reducing the amount of cheese or butter used without sacrificing flavor.

What should I serve with Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with sautéed mushrooms or your favorite protein source, and use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce is not just indulgent but also versatile. You can customize it with different proteins, veggies, or spices based on your preference. It’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep!