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Cheesy Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta and Creamy Sauce

A rich and creamy dish featuring tender chicken pieces and bowtie pasta coated in a velvety cheese sauce, perfect for cozy 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 for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/4 cup pasta water, then set the pasta aside.
  2. Season the chicken chunks with Cajun seasoning, onion powder, Italian seasoning, and salt and black pepper to taste.
  3. Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and sear until golden brown, about 4 to 6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  4. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits. Lower heat and add Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until melted and smooth.
  6. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, add the drained bowtie pasta, and toss to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Warm through for 1 to 2 minutes.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency without thinning it too much. Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: pasta, chicken, creamy, comfort food, cheesy