My family loves chicken and bowtie pasta recipe, it’s a staple in our household. I first tried it at my sister’s house, and I was immediately hooked. The combination of tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a rich sauce is just perfect.
My kids devour it in minutes, and I’m always happy to serve it to them. I’ve made this recipe countless times, and it never fails to impress. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish always hits the spot.
It’s also incredibly easy to make, which is a bonus for busy parents like me. I can have it ready in under 30 minutes, which is amazing considering how delicious it tastes. My family loves this recipe because it’s comforting, flavorful, and satisfying.
It’s also a great way to get some vegetables into our diet – I like to add some steamed broccoli or sautéed spinach on the side. The best part is that it freezes beautifully, so I can make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers for days to come. This recipe has been a game-changer for my family’s mealtime routine – we love it, and I know you will too!
I’ve tried various versions of this recipe over the years, but this one remains my favorite. It’s a classic for a reason! The key to making this dish truly special is using high-quality ingredients – fresh pasta, juicy chicken, and real parmesan cheese make all the difference.
Don’t skimp on these components if you want the best results.
Chicken and Bowtie Pasta
4.5 from 1031 votes
A creamy and savory pasta dish featuring tender chicken and bowtie pasta in a rich Parmesan sauce. This comforting meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner and comes together in under an hour.
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
For the Sauce
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
👨🍳Directions
1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente, typically 10 to 12 minutes, then drain in a colander and set aside.
3While the pasta cooks, season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering, then add the chicken in a single layer and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F.
5Reduce the heat to medium and add butter to the same skillet.
6Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
7Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
8Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly.
9Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese, dried basil, and red pepper flakes if using, stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
10This should take about 2 minutes.
11Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet, tossing everything together with the sauce until evenly coated.
12Cook for an additional 1 to 2 minutes over low heat until heated through, then remove from heat.
13Serve immediately, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a fresh finish.
For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use low-sodium chicken broth. Add steamed broccoli or peas along with the pasta for extra vegetables.
Watch Video Of How Chicken and Bowtie Pasta Works
This chicken and bowtie pasta recipe is a staple in our household – we love its comforting flavors and satisfying texture.
It’s also incredibly versatile – whether you’re serving it as a weeknight dinner or as part of a special occasion meal, this dish never fails to impress.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how well it freezes – I can make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers for days to come.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken and Bowtie Pasta
Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?
A: You’ll want to use bowtie pasta (farfalle) for this recipe – its fun shape holds onto the sauce perfectly.
Q: Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
A: While you can use frozen chicken, fresh is always best – it will yield better results in terms of texture and flavor.
Q: How do I prevent the pasta from sticking together?
A: Make sure to cook your pasta al dente – this will help prevent it from becoming mushy or sticky.
Q: Can I make this recipe with different types of protein?
A: Yes! You can easily substitute shrimp or sausage for the chicken if you prefer – just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A: Unfortunately not – as written, this recipe includes chicken broth and parmesan cheese (which are typically made with animal rennet). If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can easily swap out these components with plant-based alternatives.
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