Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites

Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites is a delightful dish that combines rich flavors with a creamy texture, making it perfect for any occasion—from family dinners to festive gatherings. This recipe showcases tender chicken bites infused with garlic and spices, served over perfectly cooked bowtie pasta enveloped in a luscious Alfredo sauce. Its unique blend of cheeses and seasonings elevates this dish, transforming a simple meal into a comforting feast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, this recipe is great for both beginners and experienced cooks.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of garlic, cheese, and Cajun seasoning creates a mouthwatering taste that will please everyone at the table.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions; you can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences.
• Creamy Goodness: The velvety Alfredo sauce adds richness, making every bite satisfying.
• Family-Friendly: A kid-approved meal that combines fun shapes and delicious flavors.

Tools and Preparation

To make this Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites, having the right tools makes the process seamless and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Ideal for searing chicken and creating the flavorful sauce in one pan, saving on cleanup.
• Mixing bowl: Great for tossing ingredients together before cooking, ensuring even seasoning.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta and Sauce

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup chicken broth, low sodium
• 1 cup Velveeta cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 oz cream cheese, softened

For Garnish (Optional)

• 2 tbsp fresh parsley or chives, chopped

How to Make Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-11 minutes. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water just in case.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In a bowl, toss the chicken bites with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Let it sear undisturbed for 3-4 minutes to develop a nice crust. Flip and cook through for about 4-5 more minutes. In the last minute, add half the minced garlic and toss. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make it Creamy

In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the rest of the garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

Step 5: Add Creaminess

Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle simmer then stir in cream cheese until fully melted and smooth.

Step 6: Incorporate Cheeses

Stir in Velveeta cubes, mozzarella, and Parmesan. Continue stirring over low heat until thickened into a cheesy sauce.

Step 7: Combine Pasta with Sauce

Toss cooked bowtie pasta into the sauce until fully coated. If needed, add reserved pasta water to loosen up the sauce.

Step 8: Serve

Plate creamy bowtie Alfredo on one side of each plate with seared garlic chicken bites on the other side. Spoon extra sauce over top if desired and garnish with parsley or chives if using.

How to Serve Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites

Serving Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites is all about presentation and pairing. This dish is rich and flavorful, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing, croutons, and shaved Parmesan.
• Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing blend of greens topped with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette.
• Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze for a burst of flavor.

Add Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted baguette slices brushed with garlic butter create a perfect companion.
• Focaccia: Soft, herby bread that pairs well with creamy sauces.
• Dinner Rolls: Fluffy rolls served warm for dipping into the Alfredo sauce.

Garnish for Presentation

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a pop of color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest: A hint of citrus zest can brighten the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites

Perfecting this dish is all about technique and quality ingredients. Follow these tips to achieve an outstanding result every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and herbs enhance the flavor profile significantly compared to dried alternatives.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Ensure the bowtie pasta is cooked just right so it holds up well in the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.
• Control Heat When Adding Cream: Keep the heat at medium-low when adding cream to prevent it from curdling and to achieve a smooth sauce.
• Adjust Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses for varying flavors; just ensure they melt well into the sauce.
• Reserve Pasta Water Wisely: Use reserved pasta water sparingly to achieve your desired sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your dish throughout cooking; adjust seasoning as necessary for optimal flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites

Complement your Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites by serving it alongside delightful side dishes. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with roasted garlic make a comforting addition.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a vibrant color and healthy crunch.
3. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized pairs wonderfully with the richness of pasta.
4. Brussels Sprouts Salad: Shredded Brussels sprouts mixed with nuts and cranberries create a crunchy contrast.
5. Grilled Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears drizzled with olive oil bring freshness to the plate.
6. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter adds a fun touch that’s loved by many.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites, avoid these common mistakes to ensure a delicious outcome.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken bites properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for a flavor boost.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the bowtie pasta too long can result in a mushy texture. Always cook it al dente, as it will continue to cook slightly in the sauce.
• Using too high heat: Cooking the sauce on high heat can cause it to separate or burn. Maintain medium heat for a smooth and creamy sauce.
• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save some pasta water can make it hard to adjust your sauce’s consistency. Reserve a cup of water before draining the pasta.
• Adding cheese too quickly: Dumping all the cheese in at once can lead to clumping. Gradually stir in cheeses for a creamy, even texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The dish will last for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites

• Portion into freezer-safe containers for easy access.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until hot throughout.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat with a splash of reserved pasta water until heated evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While bowtie pasta is great, you can substitute with penne or fettuccine based on your preference.

How can I make this dish healthier?

You can use whole grain or gluten-free pasta and reduce the amount of cheese or opt for lighter dairy alternatives.

What if I don’t have Velveeta cheese?

You can replace Velveeta with extra mozzarella or cream cheese for that creamy texture without losing flavor.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Broccoli, spinach, or bell peppers would be delicious additions that enhance both nutrition and flavor.

How do I store leftovers of Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Alfredo Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Chicken Bites is a delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy sauce combined with tender chicken offers rich flavors that everyone will enjoy. Feel free to customize it by adding vegetables or adjusting seasonings based on your taste preferences!