Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bow Tie Pasta

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bow Tie Pasta is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic, Parmesan cheese, and tender chicken with the unique texture of bow tie pasta. This recipe delivers a comforting, cheesy meal that’s sure to satisfy any craving. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, a loved one, or a group, this dish is easy to make and perfect for any occasion. The combination of crispy chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta makes this a meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bow Tie Pasta

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized cubes
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp butter, for frying

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 8 oz bow tie pasta (farfalle)
• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bow Tie Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until it reaches the desired al dente texture (about 8-10 minutes).
2. Drain and set aside: Drain the pasta and set it aside, saving a small amount of pasta water for the sauce if needed.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Season the chicken: In a bowl, season the chicken breast cubes with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat with Parmesan: Add grated Parmesan cheese to the chicken and toss until each piece is evenly coated.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook for about 6-8 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Sauce

1. Melt the butter: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté the garlic: Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add the cream and broth: Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
4. Add Parmesan cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, continuing to cook until the cheese has fully melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Pasta

1. Add the pasta: Once the sauce has reached the desired consistency, add the cooked bow tie pasta to the pan. Toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce.
2. Add the chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the pan and mix it with the pasta and sauce. Let everything heat through for a couple of minutes.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

1. Plate the dish: Serve the garlic Parmesan chicken bow tie pasta onto plates.
2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and a fresh flavor. You can also add extra grated Parmesan if you like it extra cheesy.

Tips for Making the Best Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bow Tie Pasta

• Use fresh Parmesan: For the best results, use freshly grated Parmesan. It will melt better and add more flavor to the dish compared to pre-grated cheese.
• Adjust the creaminess: If the sauce becomes too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of reserved pasta water or extra chicken broth.
• Add vegetables: Consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms to add color, texture, and nutrition to the dish.
• Don’t overcook the chicken: To keep the chicken tender and juicy, avoid overcooking it. Ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Variations of Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bow Tie Pasta

Add Vegetables

Feel free to incorporate some vegetables into the dish. Spinach, mushrooms, or even cherry tomatoes can be sautéed with the garlic and added to the pasta for extra flavor and nutrition.

Make It Spicy

For a little extra heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while making the sauce or drizzle a bit of hot sauce on top before serving.

Swap Chicken for Shrimp

If you prefer shrimp over chicken, simply sauté the shrimp in the same skillet as you would the chicken and follow the rest of the recipe. Shrimp works wonderfully with the garlic Parmesan sauce.

Vegan or Dairy-Free Option

To make this recipe vegan or dairy-free, substitute the chicken with a plant-based protein (like tofu or chickpeas) and use dairy-free butter, plant-based cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

What to Serve with Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bow Tie Pasta

• Garlic Bread: Serve this creamy pasta with a side of crispy garlic bread to help scoop up the sauce.
• Green Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pasta.
• Roasted Vegetables: Add roasted vegetables, such as asparagus or brussels sprouts, to complement the flavors of the pasta.

Conclusion: A Flavor-Packed, Comforting Meal

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bow Tie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food. The combination of juicy, crispy chicken, creamy garlic sauce, and cheesy Parmesan makes it a dish that’s sure to please any crowd. The bow tie pasta adds a fun twist, providing the perfect base for the creamy sauce to cling to. Plus, it’s versatile, allowing you to add vegetables, spice, or even swap the chicken for shrimp or tofu to suit your preferences.

This dish is easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering, Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bow Tie Pasta is sure to become a go-to favorite in your recipe collection.

Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bow Tie Pasta

This creamy garlic Parmesan chicken pasta is a comforting, flavor-packed dish made with tender chicken, al dente bow tie pasta, and a rich, cheesy garlic sauce. It’s an easy and delicious weeknight dinner!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Course Main Course

Cuisine Italian-American

Equipment

• Large pot (for boiling pasta)
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Cutting board and knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Cheese grater

Ingredients

  

• 12 oz bow tie pasta farfalle
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp paprika
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes optional, for spice
• ½ cup freshly chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Add bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions (usually 10-12 minutes) until al dente.
• Before draining, reserve ½ cup of pasta water (this helps adjust the sauce consistency later).
• Drain the pasta and set it aside.
• Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
• While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken with salt, black pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika.
• Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
• Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
• Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce
• In the same skillet, melt 3 tbsp butter over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Stir in 2 tbsp flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking constantly to form a smooth roux.
• Slowly pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and milk, whisking to avoid lumps.
• Bring to a gentle simmer and let it thicken for 3-4 minutes.
• Stir in Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
• Step 4: Combine Everything
• Add the cooked chicken back into the sauce and stir to coat.
• Add the drained bow tie pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is evenly coated.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.
• Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Parmesan as needed.
• Step 5: Serve and Garnish
• Transfer the pasta to serving plates or a large dish.
• Garnish with fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan.
• Serve immediately and enjoy!

Video

Notes

✔ Use freshly grated Parmesan – Pre-shredded cheese doesn’t melt as well.
✔ Adjust thickness – If the sauce is too thick, add milk or pasta water; if too thin, let it simmer longer.
✔ Want extra flavor? Add crispy bacon or sautéed mushrooms.
✔ For a lighter version – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.