Name: Garlic Butter Chicken That's Perfect for Cozy Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 pound Chicken Breast (Can substitute with boneless, skinless thighs for more moisture); 4-6 cloves Garlic (Fresh garlic elevates flavor); 8 ounces Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) (Can substitute with gluten-free pasta); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (Reduce additional salt if using salted butter); 1 cup Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option); 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Chopped, for serving); 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese (Grated, optional for garnish)

As I scrolled through old family recipes, a familiar, mouthwatering aroma wafted through my memories—the perfect embodiment of comfort. Today, I’m excited to share my adaptation of Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta, a dish that never fails to bring smiles to the dinner table. This recipe is not only incredibly quick to whip up, making it a go-to for busy weeknights, but it’s also adaptable for various diets, including gluten-free and low-carb. Imagine the tender chicken simmered in a rich garlic butter sauce, blended beautifully with your favorite pasta shape! Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish promises warmth and satisfaction. Ready to roll up your sleeves and create something delicious? Let’s dive in!

Why is Garlic Butter Chicken a Must-Try?

Comfort Food Reimagined: This Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta takes traditional comfort to new heights, combining tender chicken and al dente pasta in a rich, buttery sauce that is simply irresistible.

Quick to Prepare: Delight in a dish that’s not only delicious but also fast to make—ideal for weeknight dinners or when unexpected guests arrive.

Customizable Variations: Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy kick or a veggie boost, feel free to personalize this recipe to suit your taste. Consider adding fresh spinach or substituting with gluten-free pasta for dietary needs.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Everyone loves a good pasta dish! Serve this up at your next gathering, and watch as it disappears in minutes.

For more delightful garlic-infused recipes, check out my Garlic Butter Chicken and Garlic Butter Air dishes for fresh inspiration!

Garlic Butter Chicken Ingredients

• Create a delicious Garlic Butter Chicken with just a few simple, fresh ingredients!

For the Chicken

Chicken Breast – Offers lean protein; substituting with boneless, skinless thighs adds moisture for a richer taste.
Garlic (4–6 cloves) – The star flavor ingredient; using fresh garlic elevates the aroma and taste.

For the Pasta

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle) – This playful shape holds sauce beautifully; feel free to swap with gluten-free pasta for a dietary option.

For the Sauce

Unsalted Butter (1/2 cup) – Adds a creamy, luxurious richness; if you only have salted butter, just reduce the additional salt in the recipe.
Chicken Broth (1 cup) – Provides a savory base for the sauce; for a vegetarian twist, vegetable broth works remarkably well.

Garnishes

Fresh Parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness, brightening the dish just before serving.
Parmesan Cheese – A classic finishing touch; or omit for a dairy-free meal that still tastes amazing!

These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also easy to prepare for any occasion. Enjoy the warm comfort of Garlic Butter Chicken tonight!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Garlic Butter Chicken

Step 1: Prepare Chicken
Begin by patting the chicken breasts dry using a paper towel. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of garlic powder to infuse flavor. Set them aside to come to room temperature for about 10 minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients, ensuring even cooking.

Step 2: Melt Butter
In a medium-sized saucepan, melt ½ cup of unsalted butter over low heat. As it starts to melt, add 4 to 6 minced garlic cloves to the butter. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant and golden, being careful not to let it brown too much as this can turn bitter.

Step 3: Cook Chicken – Stovetop Method
For a quick stovetop option, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned chicken breasts. Sear them for about 5–7 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and slightly charred. Once cooked through, pour the garlic butter and 1 cup of chicken broth over the chicken, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.

Step 4: Cook Chicken – Slow Cooker Method
Alternatively, place the seasoned chicken breasts in a slow cooker. Pour the melted garlic butter and chicken broth over the chicken. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become tender and juicy.

Step 5: Boil Pasta
While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta (farfalle) and cook according to package instructions, usually around 10–12 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, then drain the pasta without rinsing to retain the starch that helps the sauce adhere.

Step 6: Combine
Once the chicken is cooked and tender, transfer the bowtie pasta directly into the skillet with the chicken mixture (if using stovetop) or shred the chicken in the slow cooker. Gently toss everything together over low heat for 2–3 minutes, allowing the pasta to absorb the rich garlic butter sauce and all the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, turn off the heat and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top of the dish for a burst of color and freshness. Serve the Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy the comfort of this flavorful meal with family or friends!

Make Ahead Options

These Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season and cook the chicken up to 3 days in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. Simply store the cooked chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain its juicy texture. The bowtie pasta can also be cooked ahead and stored for up to 2 days; just remember to add a splash of olive oil to prevent sticking. When it’s time to serve, reheat the chicken gently in a skillet with a bit of broth until warm, then toss in the pasta to get that rich garlic butter sauce coating just right. Enjoy the convenience of having a comforting meal ready in no time!

What to Serve with Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta

Imagine a cozy dinner celebration featuring rich flavors and delightful textures that will embrace your senses.

Garlic Bread: The perfect side to soak up that delicious garlic butter sauce while adding satisfying crunch.
Steamed Broccoli: Bright green and tender, it offers a fresh contrast to the rich dish, making every bite more balanced. Broccoli adds fiber and nutrients, enhancing this comforting meal.
Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons create a refreshing bite that pairs beautifully with the buttery chicken.
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful medleys like bell peppers and zucchini bring sweetness and depth, adding a burst of flavor and nutrition. A touch of olive oil and seasoning is all you need!
Lemonade or Iced Tea: A refreshing drink with a hint of sweetness will complement the savory notes of your chicken dish, making the meal even more enjoyable.
Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, providing a silky contrast to the savory chicken just enjoyed.

Garlic Butter Chicken Variations

Feel free to adapt this scrumptious recipe to fit your family’s tastes and dietary needs!

Dairy-Free: Use olive oil instead of butter and skip the cheese for a delightful dairy-free experience. You won’t miss the creaminess!
Vegetable Delight: Boost nutrition by stirring in sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for added flavor and color. These veggies bring a fresh crunch contrasting the tender chicken.
Low-Carb: Swap out bowtie pasta for zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice, perfect for those following a low-carb lifestyle. You’ll still savor the rich sauce without the extra carbs.
Herb-Infused: Experiment with adding fresh herbs such as thyme, basil, or rosemary to amplify the flavor profile. Try adding them during the last few minutes of cooking for an aromatic touch.
Nutty Flavor: Incorporate a tablespoon of peanut butter or tahini into the garlic butter for a unique, nutty twist! This creates a creamy, unexpected delight that will surprise your taste buds.

For even more garlicky goodness, consider making my Garlic Butter Air shrimp on the side for a delightful compliment to your meal.

Sweet & Savory: Add a splash of honey or maple syrup to the garlic butter for a hint of sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory chicken.
Heat It Up: Add a pinch or two of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during cooking to give your dish a spicy kick. This is perfect for those who like it hot!

Feel inspired? Dive into your kitchen and let your creativity shine!

How to Store and Freeze Garlic Butter Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover Garlic Butter Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of chicken broth to maintain moisture.

Meal Prep Tip: This dish’s flavors deepen over time, making it a fantastic choice for meal prep—just double the recipe and freeze the extras for easy future dinners!

Expert Tips for Garlic Butter Chicken

Cooking Method: For the best flavor, try using a combination of stovetop and slow cooker. Start on the stovetop for a good sear, then transfer to a slow cooker to finish cooking.
Pasta Timing: To ensure perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, add it to boiling salted water just as the chicken has finished cooking, allowing for seamless timing and minimal fuss.
Flavor Depth: Don’t skip the step of letting the garlic sauté until fragrant; this step enhances the depth of flavors in your Garlic Butter Chicken dish.
Avoid Greasiness: When using butter, be careful not to let it brown too much. If it turns brown, it may impart a bitter taste to your sauce.
Serving Size: This dish is perfect for meal prep! Consider doubling the recipe to enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a lean option, but if you prefer juicier chicken, boneless skinless thighs will add more moisture and flavor.

How should I store leftovers of Garlic Butter Chicken?
Leftover Garlic Butter Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to let it cool to room temperature first before sealing to avoid condensation that can spoil the dish.

Can I freeze Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta?
Yes, you can! Simply transfer the cooled dish into a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s sealed tightly to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of chicken broth for moisture.

What if my sauce is too thin?
If you find your sauce isn’t thickening as you’d like, don’t fret! You can incorporate a splash of the starchy pasta water, stirring it in gradually until you reach your desired consistency. The starch helps thicken the sauce beautifully!

What vegetables can I add to this recipe?
Feel free to customize! I often add fresh baby spinach or roasted veggies like zucchini or bell peppers during the last few minutes of cooking. Just toss them in before serving to boost the nutritional value and add vibrant color to your dish.

Is Garlic Butter Chicken okay for gluten-free or low-carb diets?
Absolutely! To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap out bowtie pasta for a gluten-free variety. For a low-carb option, you could substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or skip it altogether and serve the chicken over a fresh salad for a delicious and nutritious meal.