Creamy Chicken Bow Tie Pasta
Introduction
Few dinners are as satisfying as a bowl of creamy pasta after a busy day. This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bow Tie Pasta combines juicy seasoned chicken with tender farfalle in a rich, velvety Parmesan sauce that’s sure to impress. It’s perfect for easy dinner recipes, quick weeknight meals, and family dinner ideas that taste like they came from your favorite restaurant.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ready in just 35 minutes for busy weeknights.
- Creamy, cheesy sauce with bold garlic flavor.
- Made with simple pantry-friendly ingredients.
- Restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant price.
- Family-friendly and perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces (340 g) bow tie (farfalle) pasta
- Water, for boiling
- 1 tablespoon salt (for pasta water)
For the Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1½ cups heavy cream
- 1¼ cups freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup reserved pasta water, as needed
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley (optional)
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese
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Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook until al dente according to the package directions, about 10–12 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta water before draining and set the pasta aside. - Season the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides evenly with the paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. - Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Transfer to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing to keep the juices inside. - Sauté the Garlic
Reduce the heat to medium. Melt the butter in the same skillet, then add the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly until fragrant without allowing it to brown. - Build the Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and simmer for 2 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for extra flavor. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese and mozzarella until completely melted into a smooth, creamy sauce. Stir in the dried parsley if using. - Combine the Pasta
Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet and toss until every piece is coated in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually stir in a little reserved pasta water until it reaches your preferred consistency. This dish is perfect for holiday entertaining, great for meal prep, and makes a budget-friendly weeknight dinner. - Finish the Dish
Arrange the sliced chicken over the creamy pasta or gently fold it into the sauce. Let everything warm together for 1–2 minutes. - Serve
Remove from the heat and let the pasta rest for about 2 minutes before serving. Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for a beautiful restaurant-style presentation.
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Pro Tips & Variations
Freshly grate the Parmesan cheese for the smoothest, creamiest sauce, as pre-shredded varieties don’t melt as well. For healthy substitutions, replace half of the heavy cream with half-and-half or add steamed broccoli, spinach, or peas for extra vegetables. If you’re looking for budget-friendly tips, use chicken thighs instead of breasts or buy Parmesan in larger blocks and grate it yourself to save money. This pasta is also an excellent meal prep option because it stores well in the refrigerator for several days. Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of milk or chicken broth to restore the creamy consistency. Beginners should avoid boiling the sauce after adding the cheese, as high heat can cause it to separate. For quick dinner ideas, season the chicken ahead of time and purchase pre-minced garlic to reduce preparation time while still achieving plenty of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the recipe up to one day ahead and refrigerate it. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or broth to maintain the creamy texture.
What can I substitute for chicken?
Shrimp, turkey breast, Italian sausage, or sautéed mushrooms are excellent alternatives depending on your preference.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a little milk or broth if needed.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. It reheats well and is ideal for preparing lunches or dinners several days in advance.
Can beginners make this recipe?
Yes. The straightforward steps and simple cooking techniques make it a great recipe for beginner home cooks.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 710 kcal |
| Protein | 42 g |
| Carbohydrates | 47 g |
| Fat | 39 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 3 g |
| Sodium | 820 mg |
Nutrition values are estimates and may vary depending on the ingredients and brands used.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta with warm garlic bread, a crisp Caesar salad, or roasted asparagus for a complete meal. Serve with sparkling water, iced tea, or a chilled white wine for an elegant holiday dinner, a relaxed family gathering, or a memorable date night dinner.
Conclusion
This Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bow Tie Pasta is the perfect combination of tender chicken, rich homemade sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re preparing a comforting weeknight meal or serving guests, this restaurant-style recipe delivers impressive flavor with minimal effort and is sure to become a family favorite.
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