Warm, garlicky, and creamy, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner that’s both quick and easy.
Author:daniel-kim
Prep Time:15 minutes
Cook Time:20 minutes
Total Time:35 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Stovetop
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Pescatarian
Ingredients
Scale
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
12 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
6–8 cloves fresh garlic, minced
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1.5 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Non-alcohol alternatives (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and cut into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder.
Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and cook for 3-5 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Deglaze and add liquids: Pour in chicken broth, scraping browned bits from the pan. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Introduce the cream and cheese: Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream, and bring to a gentle simmer. Add Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Combine and finish: Add cooked pasta and seared chicken to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat evenly, using reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.
Garnish and serve: Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes
Reserve pasta water to adjust sauce consistency. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.