Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is the kind of dish that instantly steals the spotlight at the dinner table. Rich, indulgent, and irresistibly comforting, this recipe combines juicy garlic-butter-seared chicken with tender bowtie pasta coated in a luxuriously creamy, multi-cheese sauce. Every bite delivers layers of flavor—from the aromatic garlic butter to the velvety cheese blend that clings beautifully to the pasta.

This dish is loved for its restaurant-quality taste made easily at home, making it perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or even entertaining guests. It’s hearty, satisfying, and guaranteed to earn rave reviews.

Ingredients and Their Roles

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – Lean, tender, and quick-cooking, the chicken provides hearty protein and absorbs the garlic butter flavors beautifully.
Butter – Essential for richness, butter creates the base for both searing the chicken and building the silky sauce.
Fresh Garlic – The aromatic backbone of the dish, garlic adds bold depth and savory warmth.
Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) – Its shape holds the creamy cheese sauce perfectly, ensuring flavor in every bite.
Heavy Cream – The foundation of the sauce, delivering luxurious thickness and richness.
Whole Milk – Balances the cream and prevents the sauce from becoming overly heavy.
Chicken Broth – Adds savory depth while thinning the sauce to the perfect consistency.
Velveeta Cheese – Melts smoothly to create an ultra-creamy, lump-free base.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese – Provides bold, tangy flavor that enhances the richness.
Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese – Adds nutty, salty complexity and elevates the sauce.
Cream Cheese – Intensifies creaminess and adds a subtle tang.
Smoked Paprika – Infuses a gentle smoky note that complements the garlic butter.
Garlic Powder – Reinforces the garlic flavor throughout the dish.
Salt & Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
Fresh Parsley – Adds a burst of color and freshness to finish the dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente according to package instructions. Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later.
Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the chicken pieces, seasoning generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and garlic powder. Cook for 6–8 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
Create the Creamy Base: Reduce the heat to low and slowly pour in the heavy cream, milk, and chicken broth. Stir continuously and bring to a gentle simmer.
Melt the Cheeses: Add Velveeta, cream cheese, cheddar, and Parmesan. Stir constantly until all cheeses are fully melted and the sauce becomes smooth and velvety.
Adjust Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until the desired creamy consistency is reached.
Combine Everything: Return the chicken to the skillet and fold in the cooked pasta. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated.
Final Seasoning: Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle generously with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Why This Recipe Is Loved

This dish is adored because it combines comfort food indulgence with simple, approachable ingredients. The garlic butter chicken adds savory richness, while the creamy cheese sauce delivers a luxurious texture without complicated techniques. It’s a foolproof recipe that tastes like it took hours to make—but comes together in just 30 minutes.

Pro Tips for Perfection

Use freshly grated Parmesan for superior melting and flavor.
Keep heat low when adding cheese to prevent separation.
Season in layers—especially the chicken—for maximum depth.
Reserve pasta water; it’s the secret to a silky, cohesive sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this rich pasta with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Garlic bread or warm dinner rolls make the perfect accompaniment. For a complete meal, pair with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Butter Chicken with Creamy Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort meal—easy to prepare, deeply satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for family or impressing guests, this dish delivers unforgettable results with minimal effort. Creamy, cheesy, garlicky, and hearty, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

If you’re looking for a dinner that feels indulgent yet achievable, this is the one. One skillet, one pot, and endless compliments.