Cheesecake Factory Chicken Farfalle Recipe

If you love the flavors of creamy pasta and tender chicken, then The Cheesecake Factory’s Chicken Farfalle recipe is for YOU!

The combination of roasted garlic, bacon, and perfectly cooked chicken brings richness and a savory depth to the dish that is simply irresistible.

A great tip to enhance the flavor is to use the bacon fat to cook the chicken. Yum!

Don’t forget to reserve some pasta water to adjust the sauce consistency to your preference.

How to Make Cheesecake Factory Chicken Farfalle Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 lb Farfalle Pasta
• 1 lb Chicken Breasts (cubed)
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 4 strips Bacon (chopped)
• 1 Onion (chopped)
• 5 oz Mushrooms (sliced)
• 1 bulb Roasted Garlic (mashed)
• 1/2 cup White Wine
• 1/4 cup Sundried Tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 cup Heavy Cream
• Salt (to taste)
• Black Pepper (to taste)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Boil the farfalle pasta in a large pot of salted water according to package directions.

Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2:

In a large skillet over high heat, add olive oil and cook the chicken pieces seasoned with salt and pepper.

Cook for about 3-4 minutes until the chicken is browned and set it aside.

Step 3:

In the same skillet, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy.

Remove the bacon, leaving the fat in the pan for flavor.

Step 4:

Reduce to medium heat and add chopped onions and sliced mushrooms.

Cook for 5-7 minutes until they start browning.

Step 5:

Add the white wine and sundried tomatoes to the pan, bringing it to a boil.

Let it simmer until the wine reduces by half, then add the mashed roasted garlic and stir in the cream.

Return the bacon and chicken to the skillet, then add the cooked farfalle, tossing to combine with the sauce.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Choosing the Best Chicken:

Always opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts to keep cooking simple and the texture tender.

Cubed chicken cooks fairly quickly, so keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t become dry or overdone.

Enhancing Flavor:

Use freshly roasted garlic for the best depth of flavor.

To roast garlic, wrap it in foil and bake at 400°F for 30-35 minutes until soft and fragrant.

Pasta Perfection:

Cooking pasta al dente keeps it firm enough to hold up in the sauce and provides a great texture to the dish.

Adding reserved pasta water to the sauce can help it bind and enhance the flavor as needed.

Wine Selection:

Choose a white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay that you’d enjoy drinking, as it will enhance the dish’s overall taste.

This ensures the wine complements the dish without overwhelming any flavors.

What to Serve with Cheesecake Factory Chicken Farfalle Recipe

Garlic Bread

Garlic bread is a perfect match for the creamy flavors of Chicken Farfalle.

Warm, buttery, and fragrant, it complements the dish without overshadowing it.

Serve it hot and fresh out of the oven to enjoy a delightful combination of textures and flavors!

Mixed Green Salad

A fresh mixed green salad brings a refreshing balance to the richness of the Chicken Farfalle.

Use a variety of greens like arugula, spinach, and romaine for a vibrant touch on your plate.

Drizzle with a light vinaigrette for a simple yet tasty side.

Roasted Asparagus

Roasted asparagus is a fantastic way to add some vegetables to your meal.

Its natural sweetness and slight crispiness contrast wonderfully with the pasta’s creamy sauce.

Lightly season it with olive oil, salt, and pepper and roast until it’s tender.

Grilled Peaches

Try something new with grilled peaches on the side!

The sweetness of the grilled peaches brings a unique twist and pairs surprisingly well with the savory chicken and pasta.

Just half them, brush with olive oil, and grill for a few minutes.

Parmesan Brussells Sprouts

Experiment with parmesan Brussels sprouts for a deliciously unexpected side!

Roast them until crispy and toss with freshly grated parmesan for a burst of flavor.

The nuttiness of the cheese complements the dish beautifully without competing for attention.

Variations and Substitutions

You can switch the chicken for tofu if you want a vegetarian option that’s just as delicious.

This gives the dish a wonderful texture without missing out on protein.

If bacon isn’t your thing, Pancetta or turkey bacon work as fantastic alternatives!

These small swaps can make a huge difference depending on your dietary preferences.

Cheese Selection

Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to change up the flavor!

Parmesan is classic, but asiago or romano can add a delightful twist.

It’s all about personal preference and trying new tastes.

Wine Options

For those who enjoy a more robust sauce, red wine can replace white wine in the recipe.

It deepens the flavor and adds a bit of complexity.

Make sure the wine boils until it’s reduced by half for the best flavor.

Pasta Variations

Try using whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for a healthier spin on the dish.

Farfalle is traditional, but penne or fusilli pairs just as well.

This can add interesting textures to your meal.

How to Store Leftover Chicken Farfalle

Storing leftovers properly ensures that they remain delicious and safe to eat over the next few days.

Let’s dive into how you can do this with your Chicken Farfalle.

Cooling the Dish Properly

Before storing, let the Chicken Farfalle cool at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes.

Avoid letting it sit out too long, as bacteria can multiply after two hours.

Transfer the dish to an airtight container as soon as it cools.

Using the Right Containers

For best results, place your Chicken Farfalle in airtight containers.

Make sure your containers are airtight to prevent moisture and other odors from affecting the flavor.

Choose containers of an appropriate size so that there’s minimal air space on top.

Storage Duration

Store your Chicken Farfalle in the refrigerator for up to three to four days.

For longer storage, consider freezing the leftovers.

When frozen, the dish can be stored for up to three months, retaining its delicious taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Chicken

You don’t want your chicken to turn out dry, do you?

Pay close attention while cooking it to keep it juicy and flavorful.

I always suggest cooking it for about 2-3 minutes per side until it’s golden brown.

Skipping the Pasta Water

Ever wonder why your sauce never sticks?

Well, you might be forgetting to save some pasta water.

The starch in the water helps thicken the sauce and marry the pasta and chicken perfectly.

Ignoring the Garlic

You love garlic, right?

So don’t skip roasting it until golden—it adds such delightful depth to the dish!

Give it about 45 minutes, and your taste experience will be unforgettable.