Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

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There’s something about bowtie pasta that just makes dinner feel a little more special. Add in tender garlic parmesan chicken and a creamy, cheesy sauce, and you’ve got a dish that looks and tastes like comfort food heaven. This meal is a perfect blend of flavor, simplicity, and family-favorite ingredients. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual dinner party, it’ll have everyone coming back for seconds.

The cheesy bowtie pasta is buttery and rich, while the garlic parmesan chicken brings a savory edge that rounds everything out beautifully. With minimal prep and a fast cook time, this recipe is great for when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This recipe is the definition of creamy-meets-hearty. It pairs perfectly cooked bowtie pasta with flavorful seared chicken in a garlic-infused parmesan cream sauce. It’s easy to make and incredibly versatile—swap the chicken for shrimp or even roasted vegetables if you like. This dish also makes great leftovers, so you’ll appreciate it even more the next day.

What Kind of Bowtie Pasta Should I Use?

For this recipe, traditional durum wheat bowtie pasta works beautifully, holding the sauce in its ridges and creases. You can also opt for whole wheat or gluten-free varieties without losing much of the flavor or texture. The key is to cook the pasta until it’s just al dente so it doesn’t get too soft once mixed with the creamy sauce and chicken.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This dish uses a handful of wholesome, easy-to-find ingredients to create a creamy, flavorful bowl of comfort. Every component plays a key role in building layers of richness, from the buttery sauce to the golden-browned chicken.

• Bowtie pasta
• Chicken breasts
• Garlic cloves
• Parmesan cheese
• Heavy cream
• Butter
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper
• Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley

How To Make the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until just al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a bit of the pasta water.

Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken

Slice chicken breasts into thin strips, then season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high and cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and add minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly, then stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything to coat in the sauce. If it’s too thick, loosen it with a bit of reserved pasta water.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Top with chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy goodness.

How to Serve and Store Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This dish is perfect as a complete meal on its own. The rich cream sauce and savory chicken make it hearty enough for lunch or dinner, and the pasta ensures it’s filling and satisfying. It comfortably serves four people, but you can double it easily if you’re feeding a larger family or want leftovers.

To store, let the pasta cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and warm it gently over low heat. For freezing, separate into portions and store for up to 2 months.

What to Serve With Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Garlic Bread

Crunchy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up that creamy sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

A simple, healthy side that pairs well with the richness of the dish.

Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and parmesan shavings add a refreshing crunch.

Roasted Asparagus

A lightly charred, earthy side that balances the cheesy flavors.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Fresh and vibrant, it cuts through the creaminess and adds a nice zing.

Sautéed Spinach

Quick to cook and lightly seasoned, spinach adds color and nutrients.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Their sweet tang adds a lovely contrast to the savory pasta.

White Wine

If you’re enjoying this for a date night or dinner party, a chilled glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If this cheesy bowtie pasta with garlic parmesan chicken made your weeknight dinner feel extra special, then you’ll love diving into these next-level pasta favorites too:

• Try this indulgent Creamy Ground Beef Alfredo Pasta when you’re craving something rich and cozy.
• Need a one-skillet meal? One Pot Smoked Sausage Pasta is smoky, hearty, and simple to clean up.
• For another cheesy delight, the Cheesy Baked Tortellini with Meat Sauce is bubbling with flavor.
• Want a quick stovetop favorite? Don’t miss the Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta for those last-minute dinner plans.
• Or go bold with Cheesesteak Tortellini in Rich Provolone Sauce for a Philly-inspired twist.

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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can whip it up whenever the craving hits.

And when you make it, come back and let us know how it went. Did you toss in some mushrooms? Go spicier with crushed red pepper? Or maybe swapped in grilled shrimp?

I always enjoy hearing how these recipes evolve in your kitchens.

Explore more dinner favorites and cozy pasta inspiration on Mia Recipes on Pinterest and find something new to love tonight!

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