Introduction
Welcome to a cozy and delicious meal that will warm your heart and tantalize your taste buds! This Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta is the perfect dish for those busy weeknights or a lovely family dinner. Imagine tender, juicy chicken bathing in a rich and creamy cheese sauce combined with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, all topped off with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It’s comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 ounces bowtie pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Start by cooking the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Once al dente, drain it and set aside. The pasta will serve as the delightful base of our dish!
- In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. As the butter begins to foam, add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until it turns fragrant and golden.
- Now, add the pieces of chicken to the skillet. Sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Sauté the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s beautifully browned and cooked through.
- Once the chicken is ready, reduce the heat to low. Add in the cubed Velveeta cheese, softened cream cheese, and chicken broth. Stir gently until the cheeses melt into a creamy, luscious sauce.
- With the cheese sauce fully combined, toss in the cooked bowtie pasta. Mix until the pasta is thoroughly coated, every twist and turn enveloped in that dreamy sauce.
- Sprinkle in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until everything is melted and harmoniously blended.
- Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous note!
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the garlic as it sautes. If you love veggies, toss in some spinach or broccoli along with the chicken for added nutrients and color. Leftovers reheated wonderfully, but you may want to add a splash of milk to get that creamy texture back!
Cooking Techniques
Using a skillet for this recipe allows for quick cooking and easy mixing of the ingredients. Make sure to keep an eye on the heat when melting the cheese; too high can scorch it. The key to a perfectly creamy sauce is low and slow. Sautéing the garlic just until fragrant ensures it’s flavorful without being overpowering.
FAQ
Can I use different pasta? Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite pasta shape, just cooking it according to package instructions.
What if I don’t have Velveeta cheese? You can use any melty cheese, but for the creamy texture, a blend of cheddar and cream cheese might work well!
Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes! Prepare everything up to the cheese sauce and pasta mixing stage. When ready to serve, reheat gently and add pasta.
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta is a dish that promises both comfort and indulgence in every bite. It’s creamy, cheesy, and simply irresistible — perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Treat yourself and loved ones to this delightful meal and relish the compliments that will surely follow. Enjoy your cooking adventure!