Savory Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe

Indulge in a culinary delight with my tantalizing recipe for Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties. Picture this: succulent pieces of golden seared chicken coated in a velvety cream sauce infused with the rich flavors of mozzarella and Parmesan. Every twirl of bowtie pasta in this dish is a heavenly journey of garlicky goodness, making it a surefire hit for any weeknight dinner that needs a touch of comfort and luxury.

The magic of Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties lies not just in its irresistible combination of flavors but also in its ability to disappear from plates in seconds. The way the creamy sauce lovingly embraces each pasta bowtie ensures that there won’t be a single morsel left behind. And oh, that stringy mozzarella pull that never fails to excite – it’s a cheese lover’s dream come true!

Whether you’re hosting a special celebration or simply craving a cozy night in, this recipe promises to steal the spotlight at your table. Feel free to customize it with your favorite pasta shapes or protein choices, knowing that the creamy essence of this dish will remain a constant source of joy for your taste buds. Say goodbye to leftovers with this Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties recipe that’s so good, you’ll be tempted to make it a regular feature on your weekly menu.

Quick Benefits

• Creamy and comforting dish that is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions
• Versatile recipe that allows for ingredient substitutions and additions to suit personal preferences
• Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and reheated easily for quick and delicious meals
• Incorporates a blend of Italian pasta comfort with American cheesy goodness, appealing to a wide range of tastes

Why You’ll Love This Savory Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe Recipe

• Irresistible Creamy Cheesy Sauce: The silky cream sauce loaded with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese is rich, luscious, and utterly comforting – a true treat for cheese lovers.
• Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal: A perfect option for a busy weeknight as it’s simple to make and doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Family Favorite: A crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds, ensuring there are no leftovers.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients like pasta shapes or chicken cuts to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Kid-Friendly: The glorious stringy pull of the mozzarella cheese will excite the little ones and make it a family favorite.
• Great Leftovers: The flavors develop beautifully, and the pasta remains delicious even when reheated, making for a fantastic next-day meal.
• Pairs Well with Simple Sides: Goes perfectly with roasted broccoli, a crisp green salad, or garlic bread, balancing out the richness of the creamy sauce.
• Mouthwatering Flavor Combination: The fusion of classic Italian pasta comfort with a creamy American cheese sauce, enhanced by a hint of Cajun spice, creates a unique and delightful taste.

Ingredients for Savory Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe

Pasta

• 450 g bowtie pasta (farfalle)

Chicken

• 680 g boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces

Seasoning

• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika

Sauce Base

• 240 ml heavy cream
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 115 g cream cheese, softened
• 240 ml chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Cheeses

• 50 g grated Parmesan cheese
• 120 g shredded mozzarella cheese, divided

Cooking Oil

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Pro Tips for Savory Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe

Pro Tip 1: For a perfectly balanced dish, ensure your chicken is seasoned well and seared to golden perfection before adding it to the creamy sauce. This step enhances the flavor and texture of the chicken, making each bite more satisfying.

Pro Tip 2: To achieve a velvety smooth sauce, take the time to fully soften the cream cheese and whisk it thoroughly into the sauce. This will help create a luxurious and creamy texture that coats the pasta beautifully, making each bite rich and decadent.

Pro Tip 3: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding in extra ingredients like spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and texture. These additions can elevate the dish and make it even more satisfying for your family or guests.

How to Make Savory Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Boil Pasta

1. Boil a large pot of water. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Garlic Cream Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, then stir in softened cream cheese until melted and sauce is smooth. Bring mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Incorporate Cheese and Pasta

Lower the heat and stir in 90 g shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly with the sauce.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Chicken

Sprinkle the remaining 30 g of shredded mozzarella over the top. Cover the skillet and allow it to sit for 2-3 minutes until the cheese has melted. Place the cooked chicken on the cheesy pasta and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Storage Tips

To store the Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties with Cheesy Mozzarella Cream Sauce, ensure any leftovers are tightly covered and placed in the refrigerator. The dish can be stored this way for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to the pan and warm the leftovers gently over low heat. This step helps prevent the sauce from tightening up too much and maintains its creamy texture.

For variations on this dish, you can customize the pasta shape by swapping bowtie pasta for penne, rotini, or any short and sturdy pasta. Additionally, boneless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for added juiciness and rich flavor. If mozzarella cheese is not available, Monterey Jack or cheddar can be substituted for a slightly different cheesy finish. Adding spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms as optional add-ins can enhance the flavors of the dish beautifully.

Pairing this creamy chicken pasta dish with simple sides like roasted broccoli or a crisp green salad helps balance out the richness of the sauce. Additionally, serving garlic bread alongside the pasta is always a welcomed addition to the meal. The recipe’s combination of classic Italian pasta comfort with a creamy cheese sauce, accented by Cajun spice, offers a delightful twist that is sure to please at any table.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a different type of pasta, such as penne or rotini, feel free to substitute them for the bowtie pasta in this recipe. These shapes also work well in catching and holding the creamy mozzarella sauce.

For a more flavorful and juicy chicken option, consider using boneless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts. They bring a richer taste to the dish and can be a great alternative.

If you don’t have mozzarella cheese on hand, Monterey Jack or cheddar can be used as substitutes for a slightly different cheesy finish in the cream sauce. These cheeses will still melt beautifully and add a deliciously creamy texture to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate the presentation of this Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties dish, consider serving it in individual mini cast-iron skillets. The sizzling hot skillet will not only keep the pasta warm but also add a rustic charm to your table setting. Sprinkle extra shredded mozzarella on top and broil for a minute to achieve a golden, bubbly crust that will entice cheese lovers right away.

For a fun and interactive serving idea, try setting up a DIY pasta bar. Prepare the Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties and place them in a large serving dish. Next to it, arrange small bowls filled with additional toppings such as crispy bacon bits, diced tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and extra grated Parmesan. Let your guests customize their pasta bowls with their favorite mix-ins for a personalized dining experience that adds a touch of creativity to the meal.

FAQs for Savory Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta Recipe

Can I use a different type of pasta instead of bowtie pasta?

Yes, you can swap bowtie pasta for penne, rotini, or any short sturdy pasta. They will also work well in capturing the creamy mozzarella sauce.

Is there a substitute for boneless chicken breast in this recipe?

Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs are a great alternative to chicken breasts as they add extra juiciness and rich flavor to the dish.

How can I ensure the sauce has a smooth and velvety texture?

Make sure the cream cheese is fully softened and whisk it well into the sauce. This will help achieve a super smooth and velvety texture in the sauce.

Can I add any extra ingredients to the dish?

Yes, you can add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms as delicious add-ins. They will complement the flavors of the dish beautifully.

Conclusion

As you gather around the table to enjoy the delightful flavors of Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties, may this dish bring you the same warmth and joy it has brought to my family. The creamy mozzarella cheese sauce, infused with the rich essence of garlic and tender chicken, is sure to captivate your taste buds with each comforting bite. Whether you’re cooking up a quick weeknight meal or hosting a special gathering, this recipe is bound to be a crowd-pleaser that leaves everyone craving more.

Remember, don’t be afraid to get creative with this recipe! You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or experimenting with different types of pasta and cheeses. The beauty of Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties lies in its versatility and ability to adapt to your preferences. So, go ahead and make it your own while savoring every delicious moment. Cheers to creating cherished memories around the dinner table with this unforgettable Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties dish!