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Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta

Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta is a family-friendly, easy dinner recipe—perfect for picky eaters and busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Course: Dinner, Family Meal, Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients You’ll Need
  • Chicken breast 1 lb – Boneless, skinless, and sliced into small, easy-to-eat chunks
  • Fresh garlic 4 cloves – Finely chopped to release that bold, savory flavor
  • Unsalted butter ½ cup – Melted to create a silky, rich sauce
  • Bowtie pasta 1 lb – Cooked just until tender with a slight bite
  • Chicken stock 1 cup – Adds depth and keeps everything juicy
  • Salt & black pepper – Season to your liking
  • Fresh parsley – Optional but great for a pop of color and freshness

Method
 

1. Season the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a bowl and sprinkle generously with salt and pepper. Toss until evenly coated.`

    2. Create the Garlic Butter Sauce

    Warm the butter in a small pan over gentle heat. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant—don’t let it brown.

      3. Load the Slow Cooker

      Add the seasoned chicken to your slow cooker. Pour in the garlic butter sauce and chicken stock, then stir to combine.

        4. Slow Cook to Perfection

        Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

          5. Prepare the Pasta

          About 20 minutes before the chicken finishes, boil the bowtie pasta according to the package directions. Drain well.

            6. Bring It All Together

            Fold the cooked pasta into the slow cooker, tossing until every piece is coated in that buttery garlic sauce.

              7. Finish & Serve

              Top with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm.

                Notes

                Why This Dish Works So Well

                • Low-effort cooking makes it perfect for busy nights
                • Bold garlic-butter flavor delivers serious comfort vibes
                • Easy to customize with veggies or extra seasoning
                • Budget-conscious ingredients keep costs in check
                • Crowd-pleasing for both kids and adults

                Great Side Pairings

                • Steamed broccoli or green beans for balance
                • Warm garlic bread to mop up the sauce
                • A crisp green salad to lighten things up
                • A chilled glass of white wine for the grown-ups
                • Freshly grated Parmesan for extra richness

                Pro Tips for Best Results

                • Use chicken thighs if you prefer extra juiciness
                • Add red pepper flakes for a subtle kick
                • Prep ahead by chopping garlic and chicken early
                • Air fryer option: adjust timing based on your model
                • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days

                Storage & Reheating

                • Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container for up to 3 days
                • Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through
                • Freeze cooled portions for up to 3 months

                FAQs

                Can I cook this with frozen chicken?
                 It’s best to thaw first so everything cooks evenly.
                Is this recipe spicy?
                 Not at all—it's mild and kid-friendly unless you add heat.
                Can I prep this ahead of time?
                 Yes! Cook the chicken in advance and combine with pasta when ready.
                Need a gluten-free option?
                 Just swap in gluten-free pasta—easy fix.
                Making a bigger batch?
                 Add a little extra cook time if increasing the chicken amount.

                Final Thoughts

                This Garlic Butter Chicken with Bowtie Pasta delivers comfort, flavor, and simplicity all in one bowl. It’s cozy, filling, and exactly the kind of meal that disappears fast at the dinner table. Give it a try and don’t be surprised when it becomes a regular request 🍝💛