Creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor, these Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties are the ultimate comfort food! Tender, Cajun-seasoned chicken is tossed with bowtie pasta in a rich three-cheese Parmesan sauce made with cream cheese, Velveeta, and mozzarella. Garlic butter adds incredible flavor, while freshly chopped parsley brings a fresh finishing touch. This easy, satisfying dinner is perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving a restaurant-style pasta dish at home.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Course: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
- Cooking Method: Stovetop
Ingredients
For the Chicken and Pasta
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into thick strips
- 10 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- ½ teaspoon dried parsley
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce
- ¾ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup whole milk
- ¼ cup chicken broth
- 3 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 4 oz Velveeta cheese, cubed
- ¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and season with Cajun seasoning, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook for several minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Garlic
Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release the flavorful browned bits.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir in the heavy cream and whole milk, then allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2–3 minutes. Avoid boiling the sauce.
Step 5: Melt the Three Cheeses
Add the cubed cream cheese and Velveeta, stirring until melted and smooth. Gradually stir in the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Continue mixing over low heat until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes thick, creamy, and glossy.
Step 6: Season the Sauce
Stir in the dried parsley and taste the sauce. Add more salt and black pepper if needed. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a small splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 7: Combine the Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and toss until every piece is coated in the creamy three-cheese sauce. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and gently mix everything together.
Step 8: Finish and Serve
Let everything warm together over low heat for about 1 minute, stirring gently. Remove from the heat, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and serve immediately while the sauce is warm and creamy.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties
- Cook the pasta al dente: This helps the bowtie pasta hold its shape when tossed in the thick cheese sauce.
- Don’t overcook the chicken: Cook just until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to keep it tender and juicy.
- Use low heat for the cheese sauce: Gentle heat helps the cheeses melt smoothly without making the sauce oily or grainy.
- Adjust the consistency: Add a little extra milk if the sauce becomes too thick. Reserved pasta water can also help loosen it.
- Customize the seasoning: Add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.
What to Serve with This Pasta
Pair these creamy chicken bowties with garlic bread, a crisp green salad, roasted broccoli, or steamed green beans. These lighter sides balance the rich, cheesy sauce and make the meal feel complete.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days.
Reheating: Warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or chicken broth, stirring until the sauce becomes creamy again. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring halfway through.
Freezing: Cream-based cheese sauces may change texture after freezing, so this dish is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Yes! Penne, rotini, rigatoni, or shells work well in place of bowtie pasta. Choose a shape that holds plenty of creamy sauce.
Can I substitute the Velveeta cheese?
Yes. Processed American cheese can provide a similar smooth texture. You can also use additional cream cheese, although the sauce may have a different consistency and flavor.
Can I make this dish less spicy?
Absolutely. Reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a mild seasoning blend. You can adjust the spices to suit your family’s taste.
How do I keep the cheese sauce creamy?
Keep the heat low when adding the cheese, stir continuously, and avoid boiling the sauce. A small splash of warm milk can help restore its creamy texture if it thickens too much.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
For the best texture, cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time and prepare the sauce just before serving. If you make the complete dish in advance, refrigerate it promptly and add a little milk when reheating.
Final Thoughts
Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties in Creamy Three-Cheese Parmesan Sauce combine tender chicken, perfectly cooked pasta, fragrant garlic butter, and an irresistibly rich cheese sauce in one comforting meal. With simple ingredients and an easy stovetop method, this recipe is a delicious addition to your weekly dinner rotation. Serve it hot, garnish generously with parsley, and enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!