Bow Tie Pasta With Chicken And Broccoli

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Chicken And Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup heavy cream

Highlighted under: Smart Cooking

I love making Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli because it’s a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that everyone in my family enjoys. The bow ties capture the sauce beautifully, while the chicken and broccoli add protein and color to the dish. This recipe is not only straightforward but can also be made in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight meal. I always feel accomplished when a hearty meal is served without spending hours in the kitchen.

Created by

Isla Weatherford

Last updated on 2026-03-23T01:36:16.507Z

Making Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli is a delightful experience for me. The combination of sautéed chicken and lightly steamed broccoli creates a perfect balance of health and indulgence. I've learned that using fresh vegetables makes all the difference in flavor and nutrition. I often add a bit of garlic to the sauté for an extra punch!

What’s great about this dish is its adaptability. If I'm feeling adventurous, I might toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or olives for added character. Cooking everything in one pot simplifies cleanup and lets the flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting, satisfying meal that’s quick to make.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

A quick and easy weeknight dinner that comes together in just 30 minutes
A colorful dish packed with nutrition from chicken and broccoli
Bow tie pasta holds sauce perfectly for every delicious bite

The Role of Bow Tie Pasta

Bow tie pasta is not just visually appealing, but its shape is designed to hold onto sauces exceptionally well. This means that with every bite of the creamy sauce, you’ll get a perfect blend of flavors and textures. I always recommend checking the pasta a minute before the package suggests, as different brands may have slight variations. Your goal is a tender yet firm pasta that bites back, known as al dente, which usually takes about 8-10 minutes of cooking in boiling water.

When preparing the bow tie pasta, remember that you can cook it in advance and toss it with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking if preparing ahead. This also allows for a seamless integration once combined with the chicken and broccoli. The unique shape also adds an interesting texture contrast to the dish, balancing the soft chicken and tender broccoli.

Flavor Enhancements

The combination of garlic and heavy cream in this recipe is key to creating a luscious sauce that envelops the pasta and ingredients. Make sure to sauté the garlic just until it's fragrant, about 30 seconds to a minute; if it burns, it can impart a bitter taste. Adding heavy cream not only enriches the dish, but it also helps to achieve that glossy finish that makes each bite irresistible.

For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a subtle kick. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also elevate the dish; just sprinkle them in at the end before serving. These simple enhancements can make a world of difference and personalize the recipe to suit your taste.

Ingredients

Pasta and Chicken

12 oz bow tie pasta
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

Vegetables and Sauce

2 cups broccoli florets
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup heavy cream

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In the same pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken, salt, and pepper, sautéing until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.

Prepare the Vegetables

In the same pot, add broccoli and cook for 2-3 minutes until bright green. Add minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the pot along with the drained pasta. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and heavy cream, tossing to combine everything until heated through.

Serve

Serve warm, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tips

For a zestier dish, consider adding a splash of lemon juice before serving. You can also substitute grilled chicken or rotisserie chicken to save time!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water or additional cream in a pan over low heat to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through, ensuring that the creamy sauce maintains its consistency.

For longer storage, you can freeze this dish as well. I recommend freezing it before adding the cream and cheese to maintain the quality. Once frozen, it can last up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and then cook it fresh with cream and cheese for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta dish pairs beautifully with a light side salad or steamed vegetables, which offer a refreshing crunch and contrast to the creamy pasta. I often whip up a simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a balsamic vinaigrette for a colorful and nutritious accompaniment.

For those who enjoy a little extra texture, serve the dish with toasted garlic bread or a sprinkle of pine nuts for added crunch. These components can not only enhance the meal aesthetically but also contribute to a well-rounded dining experience, making dinner feel special even on a busy weeknight.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well in this recipe. Just add it to the pot in the last few minutes of cooking.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative if you're looking for a lighter option.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the pasta and chicken and mix them with the sauce just before serving to keep everything fresh.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Swap the chicken for chickpeas or tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of any chicken stock.