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Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

A comforting weeknight dinner featuring tender chicken, bowtie pasta, and a rich, creamy sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thick chunks
  • 10 oz bowtie pasta
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Velveeta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • ½ cup reserved pasta water (optional)
  • Fresh chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water.
  2. Season the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season with Cajun seasoning, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Sear the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat, add olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown, turning as needed.
  4. Add garlic: Reduce heat, add remaining butter, and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
  5. Make the sauce: Pour in heavy cream, bring to a simmer, and stir in Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
  6. Combine pasta and chicken: Toss cooked pasta and seared chicken in the sauce, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach desired consistency.
  7. Finish and serve: Adjust seasoning, sprinkle with parsley, and serve immediately.

Notes

For best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: cheesy pasta, garlic butter chicken, creamy sauce, weeknight dinner, comfort food