Ingredients

12 oz bowtie pasta (use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version)

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (slice thinly for even cooking)

Salt & black pepper, to taste

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tbsp olive oil

2 tbsp butter

4 cloves garlic, minced

½ cup roasted red peppers (jarred or homemade)

¾ cup heavy cream

2 oz cream cheese

¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese

½ tsp Italian or Southern herb blend

Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish

Red pepper flakes or balsamic drizzle (optional, for heat or tanginess)

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10–12 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: While the pasta cooks, slice the chicken thinly. Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat, then add the chicken. Cook for 6–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in roasted red peppers and heat through.

Step 4: Pour in the heavy cream and add the cream cheese. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Add grated Parmesan cheese and the herb blend. Stir gently until the cheese has melted and the sauce thickens.

Step 6: Return the chicken to the skillet, add the drained pasta, and toss everything together to coat with the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.

Step 7: Plate the pasta and chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil. Add red pepper flakes or a drizzle of balsamic if desired. Serve immediately for a warm, satisfying meal.

Tips & Variations

Pat chicken dry before searing to achieve a golden crust.

Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency without losing flavor.

Add a splash of lemon juice over the cooked chicken for a bright, fresh note.

Substitute roasted red peppers with jarred or homemade versions depending on availability.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta in this recipe?

Yes, any pasta shape will work, but bowtie pasta is ideal for catching the creamy sauce. Choose gluten-free pasta if needed.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

You can substitute heavy cream and cream cheese with coconut cream or dairy-free alternatives, and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute to keep the creamy texture without dairy.