Description
Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites is a comforting and flavorful dish that promises to be a hit at any dinner table. The rich, creamy sauce envelops tender bowtie pasta, while juicy garlic chicken bites add a satisfying protein boost. This recipe is not only quick to prepare, taking about 35 minutes from start to finish, but it also offers versatility for customization with your favorite vegetables or cheeses. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in, providing a delicious meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium)
- 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 oz cream cheese
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Boil salted water in a large pot and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente (about 10-11 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a bowl, season the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat; sear the seasoned chicken until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, melt remaining butter and sauté minced garlic briefly. Add heavy cream and chicken broth; simmer gently.
- Stir in cream cheese until smooth; then add Velveeta, mozzarella, and Parmesan until melted and thickened.
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce until well coated. Serve with chicken bites on top.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 284g)
- Calories: 610
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 810mg
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 17g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for added nutrition. Adjust the spice level by increasing Cajun seasoning or adding red pepper flakes.