Easy Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta Dinner

This easy creamy garlic butter chicken bowtie pasta dinner is a weeknight lifesaver that tastes like it took hours to prepare. Tender bites of seared chicken mingle with silky heavy cream, nutty Parmesan, and an irresistible garlic butter aroma. The bowtie pasta holds the sauce beautifully, so every forkful feels lush and comforting. Texturally you get a nice contrast between the crisped edges of the chicken and the smooth, rich sauce that clings to each farfalle, while the parsley adds a fresh hit of color and brightness. Serve this when you want a cozy, satisfying meal for family dinner nights, casual gatherings, or any time you crave a creamy pasta that is simple, quick, and reliably delicious. If you enjoy creamy pasta comfort food, you might also like this creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta recipe for another hearty option, which pairs well with weeknight routines. Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

Ingredients

1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, Cut into bite-sized pieces so they cook quickly and evenly.
Bowtie pasta (Farfalle), The shape catches sauce well, choose enough for 4 to 6 servings.
1 whole head of fresh garlic, minced, Using fresh garlic gives the sauce bright, pungent flavor.
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, Adds richness and creates the garlic butter base.
1 tablespoon olive oil, Helps sear the chicken without burning the butter.
1 cup low-sodium chicken broth, Builds savory depth without making the sauce too salty.
1 cup heavy cream, Provides the creamy body and silky texture.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, Stirred in at the end for nutty, salty finish.
Fresh chopped parsley, Adds color and a clean herbal brightness.

For another creamy pasta variation with a tomato twist, try this creamy tomato garlic pasta recipe for inspiration. Creamy Tomato Garlic Pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the chicken and aromatics. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then cut into bite-sized pieces. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Mince the whole head of fresh garlic, grate the Parmesan cheese, and chop the parsley. Tip: Drying the chicken helps it sear and brown better.
Cook the pasta. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente according to package directions. Before draining, reserve about 1 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta. The reserved water will help thin the sauce if needed.
Sear the chicken. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon of the butter. Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and sear until golden brown and cooked through, about 5 to 7 minutes depending on size. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
Make the garlic butter base. In the same skillet, melt the remaining 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute, being careful not to let it brown.
Build the sauce. Pour in 1 cup of low-sodium chicken broth and bring to a simmer, letting it reduce slightly for 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in 1 cup heavy cream and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is slightly thickened.
Finish the sauce. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained bowtie pasta, mixing gently to coat everything in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, adjust the consistency with the reserved pasta water a little at a time.
Serve. Divide the creamy garlic butter chicken bowtie pasta among bowls. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if you like. Serve hot. For another simple garlic pasta that you can make in one pan, check this one pot creamy garlic pasta. One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 to 6
Calories: Approximately 650 per serving

Tips, Storage & Variations

Tips:
- Use room temperature chicken for more even cooking.
- Grate your own Parmesan for the best melting quality and flavor.
- Taste and adjust salt at the end because Parmesan adds saltiness.
Storage:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Freezing:
- This dish freezes okay without the parsley. Cool completely, portion into freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Flavor variations using only existing ingredients:
- Extra garlicky: Increase the amount of minced garlic for a bolder garlic aroma.
- Richer sauce: Add an extra tablespoon of butter or a splash more heavy cream for an even creamier finish.
- More Parmesan punch: Stir in extra grated Parmesan at the end for a nuttier, saltier profile.

For another creamy pasta idea that complements this flavor profile, you might enjoy this creamy rotisserie chicken broccoli pasta. Creamy Rotisserie Chicken Broccoli Pasta

FAQ

How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers will keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, any short pasta works, but bowtie pasta helps the sauce cling nicely.
Do I have to use heavy cream?
Heavy cream gives the richest texture, but reducing slightly more broth will thin it if you prefer lighter sauce.
How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
Remove the pan from high heat before adding Parmesan and stir gently to keep the sauce smooth.
Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare components ahead, but combine and reheat just before serving for best texture.

Conclusion

This Easy Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta Dinner is a comforting crowd pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights or casual weekend meals. The balance of seared chicken, creamy sauce, and garlic makes it simple to prepare, yet impressive to serve. If you want a classic garlic butter pasta take on this dish, check this Garlic Butter Pasta Recipe | My Favorite Spinach Pasta for ideas that pair well. For another similar chicken and bow tie combination with a garlic Parmesan twist, see The Easiest Garlic Parmesan Chicken with Bow Tie Pasta. I hope you try this recipe soon and share it with friends and family for warm, satisfying dinners.