Name: Best Parmesan Roasted Red Pepper Chicken for Cozy Nights Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 12 oz bowtie pasta (Use gluten-free pasta for gluten-free option); 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced; 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; Red pepper flakes (optional); Balsamic drizzle (optional)

Jump to Recipe

Introduction

This Best Parmesan Roasted Red Pepper Chicken is a creamy, comforting dish perfect for cozy nights. Tender chicken and bowtie pasta come together in a rich garlic cream sauce accented with roasted red peppers and Parmesan cheese.

Best Parmesan Roasted Red Pepper Chicken for Cozy Nights Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients

12 oz bowtie pasta (Substitution: Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.)
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (Tip: Slice thinly for even cooking.)
Salt & black pepper (Essential for enhancing the overall flavor profile.)
1 tsp garlic powder (Adds a mellow depth to the chicken seasoning.)
1 tbsp olive oil (Used for sautéing the chicken to a golden perfection.)
2 tbsp butter (Lends richness to the garlic cream sauce.)
4 cloves garlic, minced (Infuses the dish with a fragrant aroma.)
½ cup roasted red peppers (Substitution: Use jarred or homemade roasted peppers as desired.)
¾ cup heavy cream (The key to achieving that luscious creamy texture.)
2 oz cream cheese (Boosts the sauce’s richness for an indulgent finish.)
¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese (Contributes a nutty flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.)
½ tsp Italian or Southern herb blend (Adds an earthy touch to harmonize flavors.)
Fresh parsley or basil (Brightens the dish and adds a pop of color.)
Red pepper flakes or balsamic drizzle (For those who enjoy a touch of 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 pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.
Step 2: While the pasta cooks, slice the chicken breast thinly for even cooking. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then sauté for 6–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove from 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 warm through.
Step 4: Pour in heavy cream and add cream cheese if using. Stir continuously until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Step 5: Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and the herb blend. Stir gently until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, add the drained pasta, and toss to coat everything in the sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached.
Step 7: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or basil. Add red pepper flakes for heat or a balsamic drizzle for tanginess as desired.

Tips & Variations

Slice chicken thinly to ensure even cooking and tender bites.
Use jarred roasted red peppers for convenience or roast your own for deeper flavor.
Substitute gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version without compromising taste.
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while cooking for a subtle spicy kick.
For a lighter option, replace heavy cream with half-and-half, but expect a thinner sauce.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving directly to preserve sauce texture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, feel free to substitute bowtie pasta with penne, fusilli, or any pasta shape you prefer. Just adjust cooking time according to the package instructions.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

To make it dairy-free, use dairy-free cream alternatives and omit the Parmesan cheese or replace it with a dairy-free cheese substitute. The flavor and texture will vary slightly.