If there’s one pasta dish that hits every comfort note, it’s this Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta. Tender chicken bites, creamy cheese sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta come together in a dish that’s indulgent yet incredibly easy to make.
Imagine juicy, golden chicken tossed in a rich, garlicky butter sauce — then smothered with a dreamy blend of Velveeta, cream cheese, mozzarella, and Parmesan. The result? A silky, cheesy pasta that’s loaded with flavor and guaranteed to satisfy the whole family.
It’s the kind of recipe that feels luxurious but comes together with simple, everyday ingredients — perfect for weeknights when you want something cozy and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta
- Incredibly creamy and cheesy — comfort food at its best.
- Quick and easy, ready in 30 minutes.
- Uses simple pantry ingredients.
- Family-friendly — everyone will ask for seconds!
- Perfect balance of buttery, garlicky, and savory flavors.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
This pasta takes classic garlic butter chicken to the next level with a creamy cheese sauce that’s rich yet smooth. The Velveeta gives it a silky melt, the cream cheese adds body, and the Parmesan and mozzarella deliver that signature cheesy pull.
It’s hearty enough for a full meal and pairs beautifully with a simple salad or garlic bread. Whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy night in, this pasta guarantees comfort in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Sauce & Pasta:
- 8 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 8 ounces Velveeta cheese, cubed
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (for garnish)
How to Make Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta (Step by Step)
Step 1: Cook the pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.
Step 2: Cook the chicken
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Add the garlic
In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. (Be careful not to burn it.)
Step 4: Make the cheese sauce
Lower the heat to medium. Add the chicken broth, cream cheese, and Velveeta cubes. Stir continuously until melted and smooth, about 4–5 minutes. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.
Step 5: Add mozzarella and Parmesan
Stir in the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses until fully melted and the sauce is creamy and glossy.
Step 6: Combine everything
Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss until everything is evenly coated in the sauce.
Step 7: Serve
Garnish with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve hot with garlic bread or a green salad for the perfect comfort meal.
Tips for the Best Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta
Use room-temperature cream cheese
It melts more smoothly into the sauce without clumping.
Don’t overcook the pasta
Al dente pasta holds its shape and texture better in creamy sauces.
Add pasta water gradually
It helps loosen the sauce while keeping it silky and rich.
Grate your own cheese
Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
Season as you go
Taste after adding the cheese — Parmesan adds saltiness, so adjust carefully.
Cook the chicken in batches if needed
Crowding the pan can prevent it from browning properly.
Use a nonstick skillet
It keeps the creamy sauce from sticking or burning.
Make it spicy
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Add veggies
Broccoli, peas, or spinach mix beautifully into this dish.
Serve immediately
The sauce thickens as it cools — it’s best enjoyed warm and fresh.
Variations & Substitutions
- Bacon Lover’s Version: Add crispy bacon bits before serving.
- Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or Cajun seasoning.
- Veggie Boost: Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or mushrooms.
- Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of Velveeta for a lighter sauce.
- Herb Lovers: Add basil, thyme, or rosemary for a flavor twist.
- Protein Swap: Use shrimp or turkey instead of chicken.
- Cheese Mix: Combine white cheddar or gouda for a new flavor.
- Low-Carb: Swap pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bowtie pasta.
- Extra Creamy: Stir in a tablespoon of heavy cream before serving.
What to Serve With Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta
- Garlic bread or Parmesan breadsticks
- Simple Caesar salad or garden salad
- Roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli
- Glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
- Lemon bars or chocolate mousse for dessert
Storage & Reheating Tips
To Store:
Cool completely and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
To Reheat:
Warm gently over low heat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess.
To Freeze:
Freeze before adding mozzarella and Parmesan for best texture. Thaw overnight and reheat slowly.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use another pasta shape?
Yes! Penne, rotini, or rigatoni all work well with this sauce.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely — thighs add extra flavor and stay juicy.
Can I use shredded cheese instead of Velveeta?
Yes, but Velveeta gives a smooth, creamy melt that’s hard to beat.
Can I make it spicy?
Add crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
Can I skip the cream cheese?
You can, but the sauce will be less creamy — add extra Velveeta or mozzarella instead.
Can I make it ahead?
Yes, but reheat gently to keep the sauce smooth.
Can I add vegetables?
Definitely — broccoli or spinach are perfect add-ins.
Can I make it without Parmesan?
Yes, but it adds saltiness and depth — consider adding extra mozzarella.
Can I use milk instead of broth?
Yes, it makes the sauce creamier and milder in flavor.
Does it taste good the next day?
Yes! The flavors deepen overnight — just reheat with a splash of milk.