GARLIC BUTTER CHICKEN WITH BOWTIE PASTA
Introduction
Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that brings together tender pan-seared chicken, rich garlic-infused butter, and perfectly cooked bowtie (farfalle) pasta. It’s the kind of meal that feels gourmet yet relies on simple, accessible ingredients. Creamy, savory, and aromatic, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or special gatherings alike.
Ingredients & Quantities
For the Chicken & Pasta
2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
12 oz (340 g) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
3 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tbsp olive oil
5–6 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1/2 tsp paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
Drain and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
2. Prepare the Chicken
Season chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
Add chicken pieces and cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 6–7 minutes.
Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well.
Add Parmesan cheese and let simmer until sauce thickens slightly.
4. Combine Everything
Add cooked chicken back into the skillet.
Add pasta and toss to coat in the creamy garlic butter sauce.
Use reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Adjust seasonings to taste.
5. Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
Serve warm and enjoy!
Origin
While not tied to a specific traditional cuisine, Garlic Butter Chicken with Pasta draws clear inspiration from Italian-American cooking, where creamy sauces, garlic, and pasta take center stage. Farfalle pasta originated in Northern Italy, with the name meaning “butterfly”—a charming nod to its shape.
Cultural Significance
Creamy pasta dishes have become a beloved staple in American and European home cooking. They symbolize comfort, warmth, and shared family meals. Dishes like this often appear at gatherings, potlucks, and celebratory dinners because they are filling, familiar, and universally appealing.
Description
This dish is rich and velvety, with buttery garlic flavors coating every piece of pasta and chicken. The bowtie pasta adds a playful, textured element that captures the sauce beautifully. The chicken is juicy and seasoned to perfection, complementing the creamy, cheesy sauce without overwhelming it.
Optional Additions
Spinach – Stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach at the end for a nutritious boost.
Sun-dried tomatoes – Add tangy depth and color.
Crushed red pepper – For a touch of heat.
Mushrooms – Sauté before adding the garlic for an earthier flavor.
Bacon bits – For smokiness and crunch.
Tips for Success
Don’t burn the garlic. Cook it just until fragrant.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, meltier sauce.
Cut chicken evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Reserve pasta water—it makes the sauce silky and helps it cling to the pasta.
Let the sauce simmer gently, not boil, to avoid curdling the cream.
Nutritional Information (Approx. per Serving—Serves 4)
Calories: ~650
Protein: ~32 g
Carbohydrates: ~52 g
Fat: ~35 g
Fiber: ~3 g
Sodium: ~380 mg
(Values may vary based on ingredient brands and portion size.)
Conclusion
Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta is an irresistible blend of creamy richness and savory flavors. The dish is easy to make yet elegant enough to impress guests. Its balance of butter, garlic, chicken, and pasta creates a harmonious, comforting meal that’s sure to become a household favorite.
Recommendation
Serve this dish with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream or use grilled chicken instead of pan-fried.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
This recipe embodies the idea that indulgence can still be mindful. By using quality ingredients, moderating portion sizes, and adding vegetables if desired, you can enjoy the creamy comfort of this dish while supporting your overall wellness. Food should nourish both body and spirit—and this pasta does exactly that.
If you’d like, I can also create a printable recipe card, Pinterest-style pin, or short-form social media caption for this dish!
