Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties

Olivia Morgan

October 2, 2025

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Why Make This Recipe

Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken, flavorful sauce, and bowtie pasta, making it perfect for family dinners. This recipe is not just easy to make but also quick, meaning you can have a delicious meal on the table in no time. The creamy garlic butter sauce adds a rich flavor that will have everyone asking for seconds!

How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties

Ingredients

450 g bowtie pasta (farfalle)
680 g boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
240 ml heavy cream
240 ml chicken broth
115 g cream cheese, softened
120 g shredded mozzarella cheese, divided
50 g grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces and season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for approximately 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and reserve.
Using the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute or until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in softened cream cheese and whisk until fully melted and the sauce is smooth. Allow mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
Reduce heat to low. Add 90 g shredded mozzarella and all grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring continuously until smooth and creamy. Return drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently to coat every piece evenly with sauce.
Scatter the remaining 30 g shredded mozzarella over the surface. Cover the skillet and let sit for 2–3 minutes or until the cheese has melted. Place cooked chicken atop the cheesy pasta and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

How to Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties

Serve Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties warm, straight from the skillet. You can add some fresh chopped parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor. This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

How to Store Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties

To store leftovers, let the dish cool completely, then place it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to reheat, simply warm it in a microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to keep it creamy.

Tips to Make Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties

For extra flavor, consider marinading the chicken in the Cajun seasoning for a few hours before cooking.
If you want a little spice, add some red pepper flakes to the sauce.
You can substitute the chicken breast with shrimp or a mix of your favorite vegetables for a different take.

Variation

Feel free to experiment with the types of cheese you use! You can try using cheddar or gouda for a unique twist. For a lighter version, you can use whole wheat pasta or skip the cream cheese.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes, you can use any pasta shape you like, but make sure to adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Use gluten-free pasta in place of regular bowtie pasta, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the chicken and sauce in advance and store them separately. When you’re ready to eat, cook the pasta and combine everything for a quick meal.