Bowtie Chicken Alfredo: A Creamy, Comforting Classic
A comforting pasta dish that delivers velvety sauce and rich texture to your table.
There’s something irresistibly comforting about a warm, creamy bowl of Bowtie Chicken Alfredo. This delicious pasta dish, made famous by The Pioneer Woman, combines perfectly cooked bowtie pasta, succulent chicken breasts, and a rich, cheesy Alfredo sauce. Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.
Table of Contents
- Introduction to Bowtie Chicken Alfredo
- Essential Ingredients
- Step-By-Step Directions
- Expert Tips and Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Introduction to Bowtie Chicken Alfredo
Bowtie Chicken Alfredo is the ultimate marriage of simplicity and decadence. It’s the kind of meal that brings family and friends together, offering the cozy feeling of home-cooked goodness with every forkful. Inspired by The Pioneer Woman’s cheerful, approachable cooking style, this version uses classic ingredients and step-by-step techniques to ensure creamy, savory success every time.
With its playful bowtie shape, farfalle pasta catches every drop of sauce, while tender chicken adds robust flavor and heartiness. The rich Alfredo is balanced by the freshness of herbs and the tang of Parmesan, creating a dish that’s deeply satisfying without being fussy.
Essential Ingredients
Before you start, gather all the necessary ingredients. Freshness and quality make all the difference in a simple dish like this.
- Bowtie (Farfalle) Pasta – 12 ounces
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts – 2 whole
- Butter – 4 tablespoons (divided)
- Kosher Salt & Black Pepper – to taste
- Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
- Dry White Wine or Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – 3/4 cup (for deglazing and flavor)
- Half-and-half – 1/2 cup
- Heavy Cream – 3 tablespoons
- Parmesan Cheese – 3/4 cup, grated or shaved (plus extra for serving)
- Fresh Parsley – 2 tablespoons, minced, for garnish
Ingredient Notes:
- If you prefer a milder sauce, use more half-and-half and less heavy cream.
- Chicken broth can replace wine for a non-alcoholic version.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
- Farfalle’s unique shape catches sauce better than flat noodles.
Step-By-Step Directions
Let’s walk through each phase of creating this creamy pasta delight. Take it step by step—the results will be worth it!
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving some pasta water just in case you need to thin the sauce later.
- Prepare the Chicken:
- Season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken breasts and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through (about 6–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness).
- Remove the chicken from the skillet, let rest for a few minutes, then slice into thin strips.
- Build the Alfredo Sauce:
- Add remaining 2 tablespoons of butter to the skillet.
- Add minced garlic, sauté for about 1 minute (until fragrant but not browned).
- Pour in white wine or chicken broth and let it simmer for 1.5–2 minutes to reduce slightly, scraping up browned bits for flavor.
- Pour in half-and-half and heavy cream, whisking to combine.
- Let the sauce heat gently and thicken for another 2–3 minutes over medium-low heat.
- Turn off the heat, add the Parmesan cheese, and whisk until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add chicken broth or reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the drained pasta and sliced chicken to the skillet, tossing to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
- Warm over low heat for a minute or two, adding more broth or cream as needed.
- Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Expert Tips and Variations
- How to Make It Lighter: Substitute milk for the half-and-half or use Greek yogurt for part of the cream. The sauce will be less thick, but still flavorful.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and use sautéed mushrooms, broccoli, or roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian alternative.
- Make it Extra Creamy: Add a dash of cream cheese or a bit more Parmesan for a richer texture.
- Spice it Up: Incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne for gentle heat.
- Flavor Boosters: Try tossing in sun-dried tomatoes, baby spinach, or toasted pine nuts for added complexity.
- Storage and Reheating: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of milk or broth while gently reheating to restore creaminess.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or warm, crusty baguette to soak up extra sauce.
- Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness.
- Lightly steamed green vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or peas add color and nutrition.
- A cold glass of dry white wine complements the creaminess perfectly.
What others are reading
Ingredient Substitution Table
| Original Ingredient | Possible Substitution |
|---|---|
| Dry White Wine | Low-Sodium Chicken Broth |
| Heavy Cream | Milk (for lighter sauce) |
| Parmesan Cheese | Asiago or Grana Padano |
| Chicken Breast | Chicken Thighs, Shrimp, or Tofu |
| Farfalle (Bowtie Pasta) | Penne, Fusilli, or Rotini |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use another type of pasta?
Yes! While bowtie pasta captures the sauce beautifully, you can use penne, rigatoni, or even fettuccine. Choose sturdy shapes with nooks for best results.
How do I avoid a grainy Alfredo sauce?
Always use freshly grated Parmesan and melt it off the heat for a silky texture. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can cause graininess.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes. Substitute gluten-free pasta and ensure your broth and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What’s the best way to reheat Bowtie Chicken Alfredo?
Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving, as it may separate the sauce.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce a day ahead. Assemble and toss with fresh pasta just before serving for best texture and flavor.
How do I keep chicken juicy and tender?
Allowing the chicken to rest a few minutes before slicing helps retain moisture. Avoid overcooking—remove from the skillet when just cooked through.
More Recipes to Try
- One-Pot Broccoli Alfredo – Combine fresh broccoli and pasta in one skillet for a quick, veggie-packed twist.
- Gnocchi Alfredo with Peas – Fluffy potato gnocchi in a light cream sauce with sweet green peas and parsley.
- Buffalo Chicken Pinwheels – Spicy, creamy, and perfect for parties or lunch boxes.
Final Thoughts
Bursting with creamy flavor, this Bowtie Chicken Alfredo recipe is set to quickly become your new favorite weeknight dinner. Its ease, versatility, and rich taste make it a go-to for busy families and budding home cooks alike. With a few simple steps and fresh ingredients, you can recreate a classic comfort dish right in your own kitchen. Enjoy every bite!
References
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