If you're looking for the ultimate comfort food, this Creamy Garlic Herb Chicken with Buttery Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is a recipe you'll want to make again and again. Tender, golden-seared chicken breasts are paired with perfectly cooked farfalle pasta and coated in a rich, velvety garlic Parmesan sauce infused with fragrant herbs. Every bite is creamy, savory, and packed with comforting flavors that make this dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Despite its restaurant-quality taste, this meal comes together in less than an hour using simple ingredients, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights when you want something both elegant and satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Pasta and Creamy Sauce
12 ounces bowtie (farfalle) pasta
2 tablespoons butter
4 garlic cloves, finely minced
1½ cups heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
2 ounces cream cheese, softened
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well, reserving a small amount of the pasta water if needed to adjust the sauce later. Set the cooked pasta aside while you prepare the chicken.
2. Season and Cook the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides with the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper, making sure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until they develop a beautiful golden crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for several minutes before slicing into strips.
3. Prepare the Creamy Garlic Herb Sauce
Using the same skillet, reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant without allowing it to brown.
Pour in the chicken broth followed by the heavy cream, stirring continuously until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
Add the softened cream cheese and stir until completely melted. Gradually sprinkle in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, whisking constantly until the sauce becomes rich, silky, and creamy.
Mix in the chopped parsley and allow the sauce to simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes, giving it time to thicken slightly and develop even more flavor.
4. Combine the Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet and gently toss until every piece is coated in the creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency.
5. Assemble the Dish
Arrange the creamy Parmesan pasta on serving plates or in a large serving dish. Slice the rested chicken breasts and place them neatly over the pasta.
Spoon the remaining garlic herb sauce generously over the chicken, allowing it to flow into the pasta for maximum flavor.
6. Garnish and Serve
Finish the dish with an extra sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. Serve immediately while the sauce is hot, creamy, and silky smooth.
Pair this comforting meal with warm garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad for a complete and satisfying dinner.
Cooking Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes