Garlic Butter Chicken Bowties

This creamy garlic butter chicken bowtie pasta is the ultimate comfort food for weeknights when you want something hearty and a little indulgent. Tender pieces of golden seared chicken mingle with chewy bowtie noodles, all tucked under a rich mozzarella-studded cream sauce. This is the kind of recipe that gets rave reviews every time I bring it to the table.

The first time I made this, it disappeared before anyone even asked for seconds. Now my family requests it whenever they need a dinner that feels like a hug.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Bowtie pasta: Gives this dish a fun shape and holds on to the creamy sauce which means every bite is coated just right. Choose pasta with no cracks for best texture
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: Keep the dish lean and cook up quickly. Look for fresh pieces with no discoloration
• Butter: Adds a rich silky base for the sauce. Use good quality unsalted butter
• Fresh garlic: Makes the sauce fragrant and savory. Always use fresh cloves for the best flavor
• Cajun seasoning: Brings a mild heat and a pop of flavor. Check your spice blend for salt content and adjust accordingly
• Paprika: Creates a gentle smoky note try Spanish smoked paprika for even deeper taste
• Freshly cracked black pepper: Gives sharp bite and balances the creamy sauce
• Salt: Essential for bringing the flavors together
• Heavy cream: Gives a luxurious and rich texture to the sauce. Use real heavy cream not half and half
• Chicken broth: Adds body and a savory note to the sauce. A low sodium version lets you control the seasoning
• Cream cheese: Makes the sauce extra smooth and helps bind everything together. Let it come to room temperature before using for easier blending
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully for that signature cheese pull. Always shred your own from a block for best melt
• Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty nutty punch. Choose real Parmigiano Reggiano if possible
• Olive oil: Helps brown the chicken without sticking and adds subtle fruitiness. Use extra virgin for the best flavor

How to Make It

Boil the Pasta:

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add bowtie pasta and stir immediately so they do not stick. Cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside. Pasta texture is crucial for soaking up the creamy sauce so do not overcook

Brown the Chicken:

While pasta is cooking heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add chicken pieces and sprinkle evenly with Cajun seasoning paprika salt and black pepper. Stir occasionally for about eight minutes until the chicken turns golden brown all over and the pieces are cooked through. Remove chicken from the pan set aside and keep warm. Getting a good sear is important for building depth of flavor

Start the Garlic Butter Base:

Lower the heat to medium and melt the butter directly in the same skillet. Toss in minced garlic and stir for about one minute just until it smells fragrant but not browned. This step sets the aromatic foundation for the sauce

Make the Creamy Sauce:

While garlic is fragrant pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Add softened cream cheese in small pieces whisk well until fully melted and the sauce is smooth and unified. Allow it to gently simmer for a couple of minutes so all flavors meld together

Add Cheese and Combine:

Turn heat to low. Stir in most of the shredded mozzarella and all the Parmesan. Mix continuously until the cheese fully melts and the sauce thickens to coat a spoon. Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the sauce tossing thoroughly so every piece gets cloaked with cheesy goodness

Finish and Serve:

Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top so it melts right into the pasta. Cover the skillet and let it sit two to three minutes. Return the cooked chicken on top of the cheesy pasta. If you like add a sprinkle of fresh parsley for color. Serve piping hot so every serving has stretchy cheese and juicy chicken

If I had to choose one favorite part of this recipe it would be the touch of Cajun seasoning. It gives just enough kick to contrast the rich cheese and cream. I always remember the first time my oldest son tried this he asked for thirds which never happens at our table

Flavor Boosters

For a deeper smoky note, try using Spanish smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives just before serving adds brightness and color. In summer, stir in halved cherry tomatoes or baby spinach at the end. For warmth in colder months, broil the pasta with extra mozzarella for a bubbling golden crust.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is a meal on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Garlic bread is always a hit for soaking up every bit of cheesy sauce. For big gatherings, you can double the batch and keep it warm in a slow cooker.

Creative Twists

If you cannot find bowtie pasta, swap in penne or rotini. For a lighter version, use half and half instead of heavy cream and reduced fat cream cheese. For a dairy free dish, opt for your favorite plant-based milks and vegan cream cheese, but note the sauce will not be as rich. You can also use rotisserie chicken for speed or add sautéed mushrooms for earthiness.

Every time I serve this at a gathering, I get asked for the recipe—kids and adults alike love how comforting and cheesy it is. This creamy chicken pasta is sure to become a keeper in your family too.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, rigatoni, or rotini all work well and hold the creamy sauce beautifully.

→ Is there a substitute for Cajun seasoning?

You can mix paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, and oregano to make a quick homemade blend.

→ How can I make the sauce extra creamy?

Ensure the cream cheese is fully softened and whisk it thoroughly into the warm cream until smooth.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Can this dish be made spicier?

Add extra Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes when seasoning the chicken for more heat.

→ What garnishes pair well?

Fresh chopped parsley or basil add a colorful finish and light herbal note to the creamy pasta.