When you take a bite of Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta, the first taste of buttery garlic-infused sauce enveloping tender chicken and perfectly cooked pasta transports you to a comforting dinner moment. This satisfying dish takes around 30 minutes to prepare, and the luxurious creaminess truly makes it a standout.
This recipe is perfect for families looking to enjoy a hearty meal during busy weeknights or for impressing guests at a dinner party. You can prepare it ahead of time by cooking the chicken and pasta, then simply reheating before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- The creamy garlic sauce clings beautifully to each piece of pasta.
- Chicken breasts are seared to golden perfection, ensuring maximum flavor.
- It’s a quick weeknight dinner that feels indulgent and gourmet.
- The fresh parsley and Parmesan add a pop of flavor and color.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to make your dish.
For the Chicken
- 4 chicken breasts
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
For the Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
For Serving
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Use low-sodium chicken broth for less salt.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken breasts can be replaced with thighs.
- Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.
- Heavy cream can be substituted with half-and-half.
- Fresh herbs may replace dried herbs.
How to Make It
Follow these steps for a delicious Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta.
1. Cook the pasta
Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the garlic
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Cook the chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, and add them to the skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
4. Prepare the sauce
In the same skillet, add the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Combine pasta and sauce
Stir in the dried Italian herbs and add the cooked pasta to the sauce, mixing well.
6. Slice and garnish
Slice the cooked chicken and place it on top of the pasta. Garnish with grated Parmesan and fresh parsley.
7. Serve and enjoy
Serve warm and enjoy your delicious dinner!
How to Store It
Fridge: 3-4 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, pasta texture changes.
Reheat: Microwave for 1-2 minutes until warm.
Tips for Best Results
- Ensure the butter is bubbling before adding garlic.
- Adjust cream and broth ratios for desired sauce thickness.
- Allow chicken to rest before slicing for juiciness.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for better flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread for an extra treat.
- Pair with a light green salad for a refreshing contrast.
- Great for cozy family dinners or when hosting friends.
