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 textures, making it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings. The tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and luscious cheesy sauce create a comforting meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe requires minimal prep and cook time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: With garlic, creamy cheeses, and Cajun seasoning, every bite bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: You can easily customize the spices or add vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
• Family-Friendly: Children and adults alike will enjoy this creamy chicken pasta dish.
• Impressive Presentation: The combination of golden chicken and vibrant pasta makes for an appealing plate.

Tools and Preparation

To make Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline the cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta quickly while also allowing enough space to prevent sticking.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing chicken and creating the creamy sauce in one pan, which saves time on cleanup.

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)
• Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

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 of the pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare 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:
1. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
2. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 2 tbsp butter and minced garlic:
1. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Pour in heavy cream; stir well.
3. Bring to a gentle simmer before adding Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
4. Stir until fully melted and smooth. If too thick, add reserved pasta water slowly until desired consistency is reached.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the sauce:
1. Gently toss to coat evenly.
2. Add the chicken back into the skillet; spoon sauce over it.
3. Let everything simmer for another 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 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 is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with thoughtful presentation and accompaniments. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

On a Platter

• Arrange the chicken pieces atop the bowtie pasta on a large serving platter. This makes for an attractive centerpiece at the dining table.

With Fresh Salad

• Pair the dish with a light mixed greens salad dressed in vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the richness of the creamy sauce.

Garnished with Herbs

• Sprinkle extra chopped parsley or basil on top before serving. This adds color and freshness, enhancing the visual appeal.

With Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of crusty bread or garlic bread. Guests can use the bread to soak up any remaining sauce, making each bite even more enjoyable.

As Leftovers

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors develop further, making for an even tastier meal the next day.

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

To make your dish truly unforgettable, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your dish, making it taste more vibrant and aromatic.

• Adjust spice levels: Feel free to increase or decrease Cajun seasoning based on your spice tolerance. It allows you to customize the heat level to suit your guests’ preferences.

• Cook pasta al dente: This ensures that the pasta holds its shape when coated in sauce and doesn’t become mushy during cooking.

• Melt cheese slowly: Stir in cheeses over low heat to prevent them from clumping together, ensuring a smooth, creamy sauce.

• Experiment with cheese types: While Velveeta is great for creaminess, try adding a bit of sharp cheddar for added depth in flavor.

• Reserve some pasta water: If your sauce becomes too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency without losing flavor.

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

Pairing side dishes with Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken enriches your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread
   A classic choice that complements creamy dishes perfectly; serves as a great tool to scoop up leftover sauce.

2. Steamed Broccoli
   This adds a fresh element to your plate while providing a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the creamy pasta.

3. Caesar Salad
   Crisp romaine lettuce topped with Caesar dressing offers a nice balance of flavors and textures alongside this rich chicken dish.

4. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings natural sweetness that pairs well with savory chicken.

5. Coleslaw
   A tangy coleslaw can provide a refreshing crunch that cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce.

6. Baked Zucchini Fries
   These crispy bites are a fun alternative to traditional fries, adding both crunch and nutrition to your meal while complementing the main dish well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce perfectly, keep these common mistakes in mind.

• Overcooking the chicken: Always check for doneness. Cook until golden brown and just done to keep it juicy.
• Skipping the pasta water: Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water. It helps adjust sauce thickness without losing flavor.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to blandness. Taste as you go and adjust your spices accordingly.
• Using cold ingredients: Room temperature ingredients blend better. Take out your cream and cheeses ahead of time for a smoother sauce.
• Rushing the sauce: Allow your sauce to simmer gently for best flavor. This enhances the richness of the cheese and garlic.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until hot. Use a microwave-safe dish.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat while stirring. Add a bit of reserved pasta water if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making this delicious dish.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative for a lighter version.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add more Cajun seasoning or include red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

Can I use different types of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape you prefer will work well, just adjust cooking times accordingly.

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

A simple side salad or steamed vegetables complements this dish beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce is not only creamy and satisfying but also versatile enough to customize according to your taste. Feel free to add veggies like spinach or mushrooms, or try different cheeses! Enjoy this delightful meal any day of the week.