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.
- Author: Crumella
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Italian
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 650
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 40 g
- Saturated Fat: 20 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 120 mg
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.