Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this incredible Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta! It’s a dish that’s just bursting with flavor and comfort, perfect for any night of the week. The combination of tender chicken, rich garlic butter, and the fun shape of bowtie pasta makes it feel a little fancy while being super easy to whip up. I remember the first time I made it for my family; they were hooked after just one bite! Trust me, this dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl that brings everyone together around the table.
Ingredients for Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta
Gather all these delicious ingredients, and get ready to create a meal that’s sure to impress!
- 8 oz bowtie pasta: This fun-shaped pasta is perfect for holding onto the sauce.
- 1 lb chicken fillet, diced: Tender and juicy chicken that adds a hearty protein punch.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic flavor that fills your kitchen.
- 1/2 cup butter: This rich, creamy ingredient is what makes the sauce so luscious.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Enhances the flavor and adds depth to the sauce.
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley not only adds color but a lovely burst of freshness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
How to Prepare Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta
Getting this Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta on the table is super straightforward, and I promise it’s going to be worth every minute! Let’s dive right into the steps to create this delightful dish.
Cooking the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, add in the 8 oz of bowtie pasta and cook it according to the package instructions, usually about 10-12 minutes, until it’s al dente. You want it to have a bit of a bite! Once it’s done, drain the pasta, but save a splash of that starchy water just in case you need it later.
Preparing the Chicken and Sauce
While the pasta is cooking, grab a skillet and melt 1/2 cup of butter over medium heat. Once it’s nice and bubbly, toss in the diced chicken (1 lb) and cook for about 5-7 minutes until it’s browned and cooked through. Then, add the minced garlic (4 cloves) and let it cook for just 1 minute—oh, the smell is heavenly! Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes to meld those flavors together.
Combining Ingredients
Now for the best part! Add the drained pasta right into the skillet with the chicken and sauce. Give everything a good toss to combine, adding in the chopped parsley (1/4 cup) for that pop of freshness. If the sauce seems a bit thick, you can splash in some of that reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. And just like that, you’re ready to serve up this delicious dish!
Tips for Success
To make your Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta truly shine, here are some of my favorite tips! First, always use fresh garlic for the best flavor—it transforms the dish! If you want a creamier sauce, don’t hesitate to add a splash of heavy cream or more butter. When cooking the chicken, make sure it’s well-browned for that irresistible depth of flavor. And remember, taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to really bring out those delicious flavors. Finally, don’t forget the parsley; it’s not just for looks—it adds a fresh touch that brightens everything up!
Nutritional Information for Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta
Before you dig into this delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this meal! Keep in mind, though, that nutrition can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this is just a general guideline.
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Enjoy this meal knowing it not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a hearty dose of protein and flavor!
FAQ Section
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While I adore the fun shape of bowtie pasta, you can easily swap it out for other pasta types like penne, farfalle, or even spaghetti. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may require more or less time to cook. The key is to choose a pasta that will hold onto that delicious garlic butter sauce!
How can I make this dish healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten things up a bit, there are some great options! Try using boneless, skinless chicken breast or even turkey for a leaner protein choice. You can also replace half of the butter with olive oil for a healthier fat alternative. For a boost of nutrition, add in some steamed veggies like broccoli or spinach right before serving. They’ll add color and fiber without compromising flavor!
Can I make this dish in advance?
Sure thing! This Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for meal prepping. Just cook everything as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed. It’s just as delicious the next day!
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta
- Quick Preparation: This meal comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
- Delicious Flavors: The combination of garlic, butter, and tender chicken creates a mouthwatering sauce that your taste buds will adore.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the fun bowtie pasta and comforting flavors, making it a hit at the dinner table.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this dish with your favorite veggies or adjust the seasonings to suit your family’s tastes.
- One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is always a win! Everything cooks in one skillet, so you can spend more time enjoying your meal.
Serving Suggestions for Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta
This Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta is already a star on its own, but let me tell you, pairing it with a few sides can elevate your meal to a whole new level! Here are some delightful ideas to consider:
- Garlic Bread: You can’t go wrong with warm, buttery garlic bread. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate!
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
- Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or asparagus pairs beautifully with this dish. Just a quick steam and a sprinkle of salt will do the trick!
- Caesar Salad: The creamy dressing and crunchy croutons of a classic Caesar salad complement the flavors of the pasta perfectly.
- Wine Pairing: If you enjoy a glass of wine with dinner, a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully with this meal.
Mix and match these suggestions based on your mood and what you have on hand, and watch your family gather around the table with even more excitement!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your delicious Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta is super easy, and it’s just as tasty the next day! After you’ve enjoyed your meal, let any leftovers cool down to room temperature. Then, transfer them to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. This dish can be stored for up to 3 days, so you can look forward to another comforting meal!
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftovers, I recommend reheating them on the stovetop. Just add a splash of chicken broth or water to a skillet over medium heat, toss in the pasta, and stir it gently until it’s warmed through. This will help bring back that lovely creamy sauce without drying it out. If you prefer the microwave, place the pasta in a microwave-safe dish, add a splash of liquid, cover it loosely, and heat in short bursts, stirring in between until it’s nice and hot. Easy peasy!
Print
Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta: 5 Comforting Reasons
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A delicious blend of garlic, butter, and chicken served over bowtie pasta.
Ingredients
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
- 1 lb chicken fillet, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add diced chicken and cook until browned.
- Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Toss in cooked pasta and parsley.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh garlic for best flavor.
- Adjust chicken broth for desired sauce consistency.
- Garnish with extra parsley if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Garlic Butter Chicken Bowtie Pasta