Garlic butter chicken bowtie pasta is a rich and comforting dish that combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, and a smooth, buttery garlic sauce. It’s quick to prepare, packed with flavor, and ideal for both weeknight dinners and special meals. The bowtie pasta (farfalle) holds the sauce beautifully, making every bite satisfying and well-balanced.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 300g bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- Water (for boiling)
- Salt
For the Chicken
- 2 chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Garlic Butter Sauce
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley (chopped)
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
Add the chicken to the pan and cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the chicken broth and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes. Add the heavy cream and stir well. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese and Italian seasoning, then mix until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the pan. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together until evenly coated in the sauce.
Let it cook for another 2–3 minutes so the flavors blend well.
Step 5: Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
Serve warm.
Tips
- Do not overcook the pasta; keep it slightly firm for better texture
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother sauce
- Adjust the garlic quantity based on your preference
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water or broth
Variations
Creamy Spinach Version
Add a handful of fresh spinach to the sauce and cook until wilted.
Mushroom Garlic Pasta
Sauté sliced mushrooms before adding the garlic for extra depth.
Spicy Version
Add red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Light Version
Replace heavy cream with milk or a lighter cream alternative.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little liquid to loosen the sauce if needed.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with:
- Garlic bread
- Fresh green salad
- Steamed vegetables
- Lemon water or iced tea
Final Thoughts
Garlic butter chicken bowtie pasta is a simple yet flavorful meal that delivers comfort and richness in every bite. With its creamy texture and balanced seasoning, it’s a reliable recipe that works for any occasion and can easily be customized to suit different tastes.
