Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta: Easy One-Pan Weeknight Dinner
Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta: Easy One-Pan Weeknight Dinner
When busy weeknights call for a comforting meal that’s quick to prepare, this Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta delivers restaurant-quality flavor in just 30 minutes. The combination of tender chicken, rich garlic butter sauce, and perfectly cooked bowtie pasta creates a family-friendly dinner that feels indulgent yet comes together with minimal effort.
What makes this recipe truly special is the one-pan cooking method that allows the pasta to absorb all the delicious garlic butter flavors while simmering in the same pan as the chicken. If you’re looking for more quick pasta dinners, this recipe fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 ounces bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 6 tablespoons butter, divided
- 8 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Create the Garlic Butter Base
Reduce heat to medium and add remaining 3 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
Add bowtie pasta to the skillet along with chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly. If you enjoy creamy pasta dishes, you might also love our one-pot creamy salmon pasta recipe.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
Expert Tips for Perfect Garlic Butter Chicken Pasta
Ingredient Quality Matters
Use high-quality butter and fresh garlic for the best flavor. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts better than pre-shredded varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents.
Perfect Pasta Texture
Cook the pasta just until al dente – it will continue cooking in the sauce. For a similar comforting meal that’s ready in minutes, try our easy rotisserie chicken pasta.
Sauce Consistency
If your sauce is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes. If it’s too thick, add a splash of additional broth or cream.
Customization Ideas
Add spinach or broccoli florets during the last few minutes of cooking for added vegetables. Sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms also work well.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni work well. Adjust cooking time according to package directions.
How should I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth to refresh the sauce.
Can I make this dairy-free?
Use dairy-free butter and cream alternatives, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. The flavor profile will be different but still delicious.
Is this recipe freezer-friendly?
While you can freeze it, the texture of the pasta and cream sauce may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, enjoy fresh.
This garlic butter chicken pasta proves that comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With minimal cleanup and maximum flavor, it’s the perfect solution for those busy evenings when you want a satisfying homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta: Easy One-Pan Weeknight Dinner
Ingredients
Method
- Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
- Reduce heat to medium and add remaining 3 tablespoons of butter to the same skillet. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add bowtie pasta to the skillet along with chicken broth. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pasta is al dente and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Reduce heat to low. Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes if using. Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until sauce thickens slightly.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve immediately while hot.
