Print

Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties

This comforting dish features bowtie pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy garlic butter sauce with tender chicken. It’s a quick and indulgent meal perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Start by cooking the bowtie pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the pasta. Cook according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside, ensuring not to overcook the pasta as it will continue to soften in the sauce.
  2. While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the 1 lb of chicken breast cubes seasoned with 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the chicken is browned and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Remove from the skillet and set aside to prevent overcooking.
  3. In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add 4 minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, taking care not to let the garlic burn as it can turn bitter.
  4. Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth and 1 1/2 cups of heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for 3-4 minutes, reducing slightly. It should thicken just a bit; keep an eye on it so it doesn’t boil over.
  5. Stir in 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce becomes creamy. It should be smooth and velvety, a sure sign that it’s ready for the chicken.
  6. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce to coat evenly. This step ensures every piece of chicken is enveloped in that rich, cheesy goodness.
  7. Add the drained pasta to the skillet, mixing gently to combine everything thoroughly. The pasta should be well-coated in the sauce, giving it a luscious look.
  8. Sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded mozzarella cheese on top. Cover the skillet with a lid and let it sit for 2-3 minutes over low heat, allowing the mozzarella to melt beautifully.
  9. Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, garnish with 2 tablespoons of fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting meal!

Nutrition

Keywords: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F and remains juicy. For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated.