Creamy Marry Me Chicken Bowtie Pasta

The aroma of sautéing garlic fills the kitchen, hinting at the mouthwatering dish to come. Creamy Marry Me Chicken Bowtie Pasta is not just a meal; it’s a delightful blend of tender chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and comforting pasta enveloped in a rich cream sauce. With a total time of about 30 minutes, this recipe works beautifully to impress your loved ones with minimal effort.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, romantic dinners, or family gatherings. It’s a wonderful option for a meal prep since leftovers store well for a quick reheat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The creamy sauce envelopes the pasta and chicken, creating an irresistible combination.
• Sun-dried tomatoes add a burst of flavor that elevates each bite.
• The quick cooking time makes it a great option for busy evenings.
• Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein.

What You’ll Need

Gather these ingredients to create your delicious dish.

For the Pasta

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta

For the Chicken

• 1 lb chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

For the Sauce

• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped, oil-packed, drained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 3/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes, optional

For Serving

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped, for garnish

Use chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use penne or fusilli instead of bowtie pasta.
• Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
• Swap sun-dried tomatoes for fresh cherry tomatoes.
• Chicken broth can be replaced with vegetable broth.

How to Make It

Follow these steps for a delicious creamy pasta dish.

Cook the Pasta

Cook bowtie pasta in salted boiling water according to package instructions until al dente, approximately 8-10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Season the Chicken

Season thinly sliced chicken with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, ensuring even coverage for flavor.

Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil or butter in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and chopped sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant and the garlic is slightly golden.

Deglaze the Pan

Pour in chicken broth, stirring to scrape up any browned bits from the pan. This adds depth to your sauce.

Combine Sauce Ingredients

Add heavy cream to the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened, about 3-4 minutes.

Mix Everything Together

Return the cooked chicken to the pan, then add the drained pasta. Toss everything together in the sauce until evenly coated and heated through, about 2-3 minutes.

Serve and Garnish

Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve Creamy Marry Me Chicken Bowtie Pasta warm.

How to Store It

Fridge: Store for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
Freezer: No, cream sauce does not freeze well.
Reheat: Microwave on medium for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.

Tips for Best Results

• Ensure the chicken is cut evenly for even cooking.
• Don’t skip deglazing; it adds essential flavor.
• Stir the sauce continuously to prevent sticking while thickening.
• Adjust the red pepper flakes for your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a side salad for a light dinner.
• Serve with crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
• Great for a cozy date night in with a glass of wine.

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