Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta: An Amazing Ultimate Recipe

Warm, comforting, and simply irresistible, this Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta brings together tender seared chicken, a silky garlic butter cream sauce, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta for a weeknight meal that feels like a celebration. The sauce is rich and creamy with a bright garlic aroma, the chicken has a golden crust and juicy interior, and the bowtie pasta holds the sauce between its folds for a delightful bite every time. This dish is ideal for cozy family dinners, easy entertaining, or when you want a comforting meal without fuss. If you enjoy creamy pasta dinners with a buttery garlic finish, you might also like this alternative take on the dish available at garlic butter chicken bowtie pasta variations.

Ingredients

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, Whole chicken breasts provide tender, lean protein; slice them after cooking for even portions.
(See a similar approach in the original garlic butter chicken bowtie pasta for serving ideas.)
8 ounces bowtie pasta, Also known as farfalle, its shape catches sauce so each bite is flavorful.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, Butter creates the rich base for the sauce and for searing the chicken.
4 cloves garlic, minced, Fresh garlic gives a bright, aromatic flavor; mince finely for even distribution.
1 cup chicken broth, Adds savory depth and thins the sauce before cream is added.
1 cup heavy cream, Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and silky.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, Adds nutty, salty richness and helps thicken the sauce.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, A simple herb blend that complements garlic and Parmesan.
Salt and pepper to taste, Essential for seasoning the chicken and sauce.
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish), Adds a fresh color contrast and a mild herb note.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the pasta: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside. Tip: Reserve a 1/4 cup of pasta cooking water in case you want to loosen the sauce later.
Prepare the chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
Sear the chicken: In a large skillet, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and sear for about 5 to 7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Tip: A meat thermometer should read 165 F in the thickest part.
Make the garlic butter sauce: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1/4 cup of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 to 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned.
Add liquid ingredients: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Incorporate cheese and seasoning: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly, about 3 to 4 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, thin with a splash of the reserved pasta water.
Combine pasta and chicken: Slice the cooked chicken into strips and return it to the skillet. Add the cooked bowtie pasta and toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.
Taste and adjust: Season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Garnish: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve immediately: Plate the dish and enjoy while hot.

For additional step-by-step tips and photos you can reference this helpful guide at recipe notes and photos.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: Approximately 860 per serving

Tips, Storage & Variations

Tips:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to achieve a better sear.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for best melting and flavor.
- If the sauce separates, whisk in a little more cream over low heat to bring it back together.
Storage:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to refresh the sauce.
Freezing:
- You can freeze the cooked chicken and pasta in the sauce for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove.
Flavor variations using existing ingredients only:
- Make it herb-forward by adding more Italian seasoning to the sauce before simmering.
- For a cheesier finish, stir an extra tablespoon of grated Parmesan into each serving before plating.
- Increase garlic aroma by adding one clove of minced garlic during the final toss with pasta.

Also see a complementary comfort recipe that pairs well with garlic pasta, like a warm lemon garlic butter chicken with creamy parmesan for inspiration.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?
Use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should read 165 F in the thickest part.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, any short pasta will work, but bowtie pasta holds the sauce nicely in its folds.
Is it okay to use low-fat cream or milk instead of heavy cream?
Low-fat options will thin the sauce and change the texture; heavy cream gives the richest result.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
You can make the sauce and chill it, but reheat gently and whisk in a splash of broth or cream before tossing with pasta.
How do I prevent the garlic from burning?
Sauté garlic over medium heat and remove from direct high heat quickly once fragrant, about 1 to 2 minutes.

Conclusion

This Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta is a reliable, comforting recipe that delivers rich flavor without complicated steps. It is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying but straightforward. If you want an alternative cooking method that speeds things up, check the Instant Pot version for a quick twist on the same flavors at Instant Pot Butter Chicken Bowties – Pressure Luck Cooking. For a brighter, veggie-forward pairing idea, see this creamy pasta with a lemon twist at Chicken Broccoli Pasta with Lemon Butter Sauce.

I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as eating it. Please share your results and any tasty tweaks you try for a cozy meal everyone will love.