Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo

Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo is a delightful dish that combines tender chicken with creamy, cheesy pasta. This recipe is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings. The rich flavors and creamy textures make it a standout meal that everyone will love. Plus, it’s easy to prepare, making it suitable for both novice and experienced cooks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30-35 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of Cajun seasoning and garlic creates a deliciously aromatic experience.
• Creamy Goodness: The Alfredo sauce is rich and cheesy, elevating the entire meal.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as a main course or alongside your favorite sides for a complete meal.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting flavors of this dish.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the bowtie pasta to the perfect al dente texture.
• Large skillet: Used for searing the chicken and making the creamy Alfredo sauce in one pan, which saves on cleanup.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: Great for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thick-sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter (for searing)
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta

• 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)

For the Alfredo Sauce

• 2 tbsp butter (for sauce)
• 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup whole milk
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup Velveeta, cubed
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Chopped parsley, for garnish

How to Make Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 10-11 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tbsp butter over medium-high heat. Season chicken generously with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Sear the chicken for about 6-8 minutes, flipping once until golden brown and cooked through with crispy edges. Remove to a plate and keep warm.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and melt 2 tbsp butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and milk. Stir in cream cheese and whisk until smooth. Add Velveeta cubes, stirring until fully melted. Stir in mozzarella, Parmesan, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like heat. Simmer until the sauce is thick and glossy.

Step 4: Toss and Coat

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and gently toss until every piece is coated in the rich Alfredo cheese sauce. If the sauce thickens too much, add a splash of pasta water or milk.

Step 5: Plate and Serve

Spoon the cheesy Alfredo bowties on one side of the plate. Arrange the golden Cajun garlic chicken on the other side. Garnish with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan if you like. Serve hot and creamy.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 825 per serving

How to Serve Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo

Serving Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo is all about presentation and enhancing the dish’s flavors. This creamy pasta pairs well with various accompaniments that can elevate your meal experience.

Complement with Fresh Vegetables

• Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli adds color and nutrients, balancing the richness of the Alfredo sauce.
• Roasted Asparagus: Seasoned with olive oil and garlic, roasted asparagus provides a tender yet crunchy texture.
• Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed in olive oil, these beans bring a fresh crunch and enhance the garlic flavor in the chicken.

Enhance with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a hint of freshness that brightens the dish.
• Basil Leaves: Torn basil can add a fragrant touch, making each bite feel more vibrant.

Offer Extra Cheese

• Parmesan Shavings: A few extra shavings of Parmesan on top can make for an indulgent finish for cheese lovers.
• Mozzarella Dots: Adding small dollops of fresh mozzarella can create a creamy texture that complements the dish beautifully.

How to Perfect Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo

Perfecting Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo is achievable with a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to enhance your cooking process and flavor profile.

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you season your chicken generously. Use Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, and smoked paprika for maximum flavor.
• Proper pasta cooking: Cook bowtie pasta until al dente. This ensures it holds up well when tossed in the sauce without becoming mushy.
• Creamy sauce consistency: If your Alfredo sauce thickens too much, add a splash of reserved pasta water or milk to reach the desired creaminess.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and quality cheeses make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for freshly grated Parmesan and real cream cheese.
• Sear at the right temperature: Searing chicken over medium-high heat gives it a crispy edge while keeping it juicy inside.

Best Side Dishes for Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo

Pairing side dishes with Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo enhances your meal and offers delightful contrasts in flavor and texture.

1. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce tossed with Caesar dressing complements the richness of the pasta.
2. Garlic Bread: Toasted bread smeared with garlic butter creates an irresistible side that ties perfectly with Italian flavors.
3. Caprese Salad: Slices of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze provide freshness against creamy pasta.
4. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative while adding some vegetables to your plate.
5. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter adds a bit of sweetness that balances the savory notes of the dish.
6. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned simply are always a crowd-pleaser alongside any creamy pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the dish. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking bowtie pasta too long can lead to mushy noodles. Always follow the package instructions and aim for al dente for the best texture.
• Skipping Seasoning: Neglecting to season the chicken well can result in bland flavors. Use Cajun seasoning generously and taste as you go for a balanced flavor.
• Not Using Fresh Garlic: Relying on pre-minced garlic can detract from the dish’s freshness. Freshly minced garlic adds more robust flavor; always opt for it when possible.
• Using Low-Quality Cheese: Substituting with low-quality cheese can ruin the creaminess of your sauce. Stick to good quality cheeses like Velveeta and mozzarella for a rich, cheesy experience.
• Not Monitoring Sauce Thickness: Ignoring the sauce as it cooks might lead to a sauce that’s too thick or too thin. Keep an eye on it and adjust with pasta water or milk as needed.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo

• For freezing, use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover your dish with foil. Heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place portions in a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat in 1-minute increments until hot, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat in a pan, adding a splash of milk or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo:

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute bowtie pasta with any pasta shape you prefer, such as penne or fusilli.

How spicy is this Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo?

The spiciness depends on how much Cajun seasoning you use. You can adjust it according to your taste preference.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then combine them just before serving for a fresh taste.

Is there a vegetarian option?

For a vegetarian version, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers while keeping all other ingredients the same.

Final Thoughts

Garlic Chicken with Cheesy Bowtie Alfredo is not only delicious but also versatile enough to customize according to your preferences. Feel free to add vegetables or swap out seasonings to suit your taste. This creamy dish is sure to satisfy any craving—give it a try!