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Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

A comforting blend of tender chicken and bowtie pasta enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce, perfect for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
  • 10 oz bowtie pasta
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Velveeta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ¼ cup reserved pasta water (optional)
  • Fresh chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/4 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
  2. Toss the chicken chunks with Cajun seasoning, onion powder, and salt and black pepper to taste in a bowl. Ensure pieces are evenly coated.
  3. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Add the remaining butter and minced garlic to the same skillet, cooking until fragrant, about 30 to 45 seconds.
  5. Pour in heavy cream, bring to a gentle simmer, and reduce heat to medium-low. Stir in Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.
  6. Add cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Return the chicken and gently stir to combine. Simmer briefly to heat through.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley.

Notes

For a creamier texture, stir in reserved pasta water sparingly. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cheesy Chicken Pasta, Garlic Butter Pasta, Comfort Food