Irresistible Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Intro and Brief Recap

Are you ready to indulge in a comforting bowl of Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken? This dish offers a delightful combination of flavors, featuring tender bowtie pasta coated in a rich, creamy cheese sauce paired with succulent garlic parmesan chicken. The aromas wafting from the kitchen will draw your family and friends near, eager to enjoy every savory bite.

This recipe brings together the charm of Italian cuisine with an easy-to-follow method that suits any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this cheesy dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Imagine a warm plate filled with pasta and chicken, topped with fresh herbs and melted cheese. It’s truly a meal that promises satisfaction and comfort, making it an instant favorite for all who taste it.

Key Ingredients For Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Bowtie Pasta: About 12 ounces of bowtie pasta is ideal for this recipe; its unique shape holds onto the sauce beautifully.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use around 3-4 chicken breasts for juicy flavor; adjust according to your serving needs.
• Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for maximum flavor; minced garlic infuses the chicken and sauce perfectly.
• Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh parmesan for a richer taste; it melts beautifully into the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: About one cup of heavy cream creates a luscious and creamy texture for the sauce.

For the Sauce:

• Butter: Use unsalted butter to sauté garlic and create a rich base for your sauce.
• Italian Seasoning: A teaspoon of Italian seasoning adds depth and warmth to the overall flavor profile.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step: Cook the Pasta

Begin by boiling salted water in a large pot. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside while you prepare the chicken.

Second Step: Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt two tablespoons of butter. Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning before placing them in the skillet. Cook for about six minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from heat, let rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips.

Third Step: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter along with minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until fragrant, then pour in heavy cream while stirring continuously. Allow it to simmer gently for about three minutes before adding grated parmesan cheese.

Fourth Step: Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together until each piece of pasta is well-coated. Then gently fold in sliced chicken pieces.

Fifth Step: Serve

Transfer to plates or bowls and garnish with extra parmesan cheese and chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken warm for an unforgettable culinary experience!

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality parmesan can elevate your dish’s flavor significantly.
• Pasta Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your pasta while cooking; al dente ensures it holds up well when mixed with the sauce.
• Add Vegetables: Consider adding sautéed spinach or cherry tomatoes for extra color and nutrition.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken, start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season boneless chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Cook the chicken for about six to eight minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.

Next, in the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Gradually stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Toss in the cooked bowtie pasta and mix well to coat every piece in that delicious cheesy sauce. Slice the rested chicken, place it on top of the pasta, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is perfect for various occasions. Here are some great serving suggestions:

• Pair with a Fresh Salad: A light green salad drizzled with vinaigrette complements this dish beautifully.
• Serve with Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes an excellent side to soak up any leftover cheesy sauce.
• Top with Extra Cheese: For cheese lovers, adding extra Parmesan or mozzarella right before serving enhances flavor.

Nutritional Information

Each serving of Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken provides a satisfying meal packed with protein from the chicken and carbohydrates from the pasta. The creamy sauce offers richness while providing essential fats. Pairing it with vegetables increases fiber content, making this dish not only delicious but also balanced.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers of Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if necessary to revive its creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I make Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare this dish ahead of time by cooking the pasta and chicken separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to serve, combine them in a skillet with the sauce and heat until warmed through for a quick weeknight dinner.

What can I substitute for chicken in this recipe?

For a vegetarian option, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or grilled zucchini. You can also use shrimp or tofu as alternatives to maintain protein content while enhancing flavor.

How can I make Cheesy Bowtie Pasta healthier?

To lighten up your Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken, consider using whole grain bowtie pasta or zucchini noodles instead of regular pasta. Additionally, you can reduce heavy cream by substituting half-and-half or using Greek yogurt for added creaminess without extra calories.

Can I freeze Cheesy Bowtie Pasta?

While freezing is possible, it’s best to freeze the components separately—pasta and sauce together but keep chicken aside—to maintain texture upon reheating. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on low heat.