Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo

Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe stands out with its rich flavors and comforting texture. The combination of spices on the chicken complements the decadent Alfredo sauce, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish can be made in just 30-35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich and Flavorful: The blend of Cajun seasoning and garlic elevates the chicken, while the cheesy Alfredo sauce is irresistibly creamy.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it as a main course or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the comforting flavors of cheesy bowtie pasta and seasoned chicken.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers taste great and can be easily reheated for lunch or dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta; ensures even cooking.
• Skillet: Perfect for searing chicken and making the sauce in one pan.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly when making the Alfredo sauce.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing chicken and mincing garlic.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thick-sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter (for searing)
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta

• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter (for sauce)
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup Velveeta, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

How to Make Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat.
– Season chicken generously with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
– Sear the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, flipping once until golden brown and cooked through with crispy edges.
– Remove from skillet to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet:
– Reduce heat to medium and melt 2 tbsp butter.
– Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
– Pour in heavy cream and milk; stir in cream cheese whisking until smooth.
– Add Velveeta cubes stirring until fully melted.
– Mix in mozzarella, Parmesan, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat; simmer until thickened.

Step 4: Toss and Coat

Add cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet:
– Gently toss until every piece is coated in rich Alfredo cheese sauce.
– If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of pasta water or milk to loosen.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Spoon cheesy Alfredo bowties onto one side of each plate:
– Arrange golden Cajun garlic chicken on the other side.
– Garnish with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and creamy!

How to Serve Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo

Serving your Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present and enjoy this creamy dish.

Pair with a Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the Alfredo sauce.

Add Garlic Bread

• Serve warm garlic bread or breadsticks on the side for dipping into the cheesy sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Include Roasted Vegetables

• Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add color and nutrition to your meal while balancing the creamy pasta.

Top with Extra Cheese

• For cheese lovers, finish each serving with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan or mozzarella for added creaminess and flavor.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil not only adds visual appeal but also brings freshness that cuts through the richness.

How to Perfect Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo

To ensure your Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh garlic and high-quality cheeses for a richer flavor in your Alfredo sauce.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure you cook the bowtie pasta until just al dente; this will help it hold its shape when mixed with the sauce.
• Control Sauce Thickness: If your sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk to reach your desired consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings throughout cooking to ensure the flavors are balanced and to your liking.
• Sear Chicken Properly: Make sure to sear the chicken until golden brown for a delicious crust that enhances both texture and flavor.
• Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after cooking; this keeps it juicy when sliced.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo

Pairing side dishes with your Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement this dish beautifully.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds nutritional value and a nice crunch; simply steam until tender.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad with romaine lettuce, croutons, and creamy dressing provides a crunchy contrast.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly seasoned grilled asparagus brings a smoky flavor that pairs well with rich pasta.
4. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make for a hearty side without overshadowing the main dish.
5. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic offer a comforting addition that melds well with cheesy sauces.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds brightness and acidity that balances out the heavy flavors of the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo, it’s easy to overlook a few key steps. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for perfect results.

• Overcooking the Chicken: This can lead to dry meat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F and remove it from heat promptly.
• Not Salting the Pasta Water: If you skip this step, your pasta may taste bland. Always salt your water generously before adding pasta.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold cream cheese or milk can cause the sauce to clump. Let these ingredients reach room temperature for a smoother sauce.
• Rushing the Sauce Preparation: If you cook the sauce too quickly, it may not thicken properly. Allow enough time for the flavors to meld and the sauce to achieve a glossy finish.
• Neglecting to Toss the Pasta Thoroughly: Incomplete mixing can result in unevenly coated pasta. Be sure to toss gently until every piece is well-covered in sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dish cools completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo

• Freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification.

Reheating Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F, place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk if the sauce appears too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo.

Can I use another type of pasta?

You can substitute bowtie pasta with other shapes like penne or fusilli. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?

If you prefer a lighter option, try using ricotta cheese or Greek yogurt for a slightly different flavor.

How do I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap out chicken for sautéed mushrooms or grilled vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based broths.

Can I customize the spice level?

Absolutely! Adjust Cajun seasoning or add more red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.

How long does it take to prepare this meal?

The total cooking time is around 30-35 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners!

Final Thoughts

Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Indulge in the delightful flavors of Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo, a creamy and rich pasta dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Tender chicken is seasoned to perfection and paired with bowtie pasta enveloped in a luscious Alfredo sauce. This recipe balances comfort and sophistication, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Quick to prepare and family-friendly, it’s sure to become a favorite at your dinner table.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 oz cream cheese
• 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Cook bowtie pasta in salted boiling water until al dente (about 10-11 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Season chicken with spices and sear for 6-8 minutes until golden brown. Remove and keep warm.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter; sauté garlic for 30 seconds. Add heavy cream, milk, and cream cheese; whisk until smooth. Stir in Velveeta and mozzarella until melted.
4. Toss cooked pasta into the sauce until well coated. Adjust thickness with reserved pasta water if necessary.
5. Serve pasta on plates with sliced chicken on top; garnish with chopped parsley.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 630
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 820mg
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 21g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 47g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 110mg