Cheesy Garlic Butter Bowtie Pasta with Chicken Bites
Ingredients:
1 pound bowtie pasta
1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 tablespoons butter, divided
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, plus more for garnish
1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, plus more for garnish
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick!)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving
Directions:
1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken cubes with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Make the Garlic Butter Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Add the Liquids: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to slightly thicken.
5. Make it Cheesy: Stir in the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter, stirring until melted and incorporated.
6. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta and chicken back to the skillet. Toss to coat everything evenly in the cheesy garlic butter sauce. Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and red pepper flakes (if using).
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately with lemon wedges for a bright, zesty finish!
Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Servings: 6 | Calories: Approximately 550 per serving