Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

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I’ve always had a soft spot for comforting, rich pasta dishes—and this Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is one I turn to over and over again. It brings together everything I crave in a hearty meal: a silky cheese-coated pasta that clings to every curve of those adorable bowties, and juicy, golden-seared chicken that’s been kissed with garlic and finished with a shower of parmesan. It’s the kind of dinner that makes you want to go back for seconds before you even finish your first bite.

What I love most about this dish is how deceptively simple it is to prepare. While it looks restaurant-level impressive when served, it comes together easily with pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or just want something warm and satisfying after a long day, this recipe checks every box. It’s bold, cheesy, garlicky, and just plain irresistible.

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

This recipe is a double win: the pasta delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with minimal effort, while the chicken brings flavor and protein in one go. It’s family-friendly, affordable, and works just as well for casual weeknights as it does for dinner parties. The balance between the richness of the cheese and the bite of garlic in the chicken creates an incredibly satisfying plate that feels indulgent yet totally manageable.

What Kind of Bowtie Pasta Should I Use?

When making Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken, I always go for classic dried farfalle (the cute bowtie-shaped pasta) because it holds the sauce beautifully. The ridges and folds trap all that creamy, cheesy goodness in the best way. If you’re feeling fancy or want a slightly different texture, fresh bowtie pasta is also a great option—it cooks faster and gives a silkier bite. Whole wheat or protein-enriched versions are also on the table if you’re leaning toward a more nutritious spin.

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Options for Substitutions

There’s a lot of room to play around with this recipe depending on what you have on hand or your dietary preferences:

• Pasta Swap: Don’t have bowtie pasta? Use penne, rotini, or shells—they all hold the cheese sauce well.
• Cheese Variety: You can mix in mozzarella, sharp cheddar, gouda, or even a little blue cheese for a deeper punch. Parmesan is key, though—don’t skip it.
• Chicken Alternatives: Try grilled shrimp, crispy tofu, or rotisserie chicken if you’re in a hurry. The garlic-parmesan treatment works on all of them.
• Cream Base: If you’re out of heavy cream, you can use half-and-half or even full-fat milk with a bit of flour or cream cheese to thicken it up.
• Gluten-Free Options: Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure your parmesan and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

This dish is very forgiving, so don’t be afraid to adapt it to what you’ve got in your kitchen.

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Ingredients for Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

• Bowtie (Farfalle) Pasta
  The star of the pasta side—its shape holds onto the creamy cheese sauce perfectly and adds texture to every bite.
• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts
  These become tender and juicy when seared, making them the perfect protein to pair with the rich pasta.
• Garlic
  Fresh minced garlic infuses the chicken with bold flavor and is essential for building that signature garlic-parmesan profile.
• Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated)
  Sharp, salty, and nutty—parmesan brings richness to both the chicken and the pasta sauce.
• Heavy Cream
  Creates a luscious, velvety sauce for the pasta—its fat content is key for binding the cheese smoothly.
• Butter
  Used to sauté the garlic and help emulsify the sauce; it also adds a depth of flavor and silkiness.
• Olive Oil
  Helps sear the chicken to a golden-brown finish without drying it out.
• Italian Seasoning
  A blend of herbs that enhances both the chicken and the pasta with just the right earthy undertone.
• Salt and Black Pepper
  Simple but crucial for seasoning every component and balancing all the other flavors.
• Fresh Parsley (Optional)
  Adds a pop of color and freshness for garnish—completely optional but highly recommended.

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Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of the pasta water.

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Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

While the pasta cooks, season the chicken thighs or breasts with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and a touch of garlic powder if desired. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown and fully cooked through—about 5–6 minutes per side depending on thickness. Remove from pan and let rest before slicing.

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Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add butter. Once melted, stir in minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about 1 minute. Slowly pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Let it simmer gently for 3–4 minutes until slightly thickened.

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Step 4: Add Cheese and Combine Pasta

Reduce the heat to low. Stir in freshly grated parmesan and whisk until melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the cooked bowtie pasta and toss to coat evenly. If the sauce feels too thick, stir in a bit of the reserved pasta water until it reaches your desired consistency.

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Step 5: Finish and Serve

Slice the rested chicken into strips or bite-sized pieces and serve it over the cheesy pasta. Garnish with extra parmesan and chopped parsley if using. Serve warm and enjoy every creamy, garlicky bite.

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How Long to Cook Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

The full recipe comes together in about 30–35 minutes:

• Pasta Cooking Time: 10–12 minutes
• Chicken Searing Time: 10–12 minutes
• Sauce Prep & Assembly: 8–10 minutes

Everything moves efficiently if you prep while things cook—like making the sauce while the pasta boils or letting the chicken rest as you stir the cheese into the sauce. It’s a quick dinner that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for speed.

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Tips for Perfect Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

• Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: It melts better and gives the sauce a smoother, silkier finish than pre-shredded cheese, which can clump.
• Don’t Overcook the Pasta: You want it al dente so it holds up once it’s coated in the creamy sauce. Overcooked pasta can get mushy fast.
• Let the Chicken Rest: After cooking, rest the chicken for at least 5 minutes before slicing to lock in the juices.
• Reserve Pasta Water: It’s liquid gold. A splash helps adjust the sauce’s consistency and makes everything cling together more naturally.
• Use a Nonstick or Cast Iron Skillet: For searing the chicken evenly and getting that golden crust without it sticking.
• Balance the Garlic: Garlic burns quickly, so keep an eye on it while sautéing. You want it golden, not bitter.
• Season As You Go: Taste and adjust salt and pepper at every step for the most flavorful result.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcrowding the Pan When Searing Chicken
  This causes the chicken to steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if needed to get that golden crust.
• Using Cold Chicken Straight from the Fridge
  Let your chicken sit out for 10–15 minutes before cooking to ensure even doneness and avoid rubbery texture.
• Burning the Garlic
  Garlic cooks fast—keep the heat moderate and stir constantly once it hits the pan. Burnt garlic will make the entire sauce taste bitter.
• Adding Cheese to Boiling Sauce
  High heat can cause cheese to separate. Lower the heat before adding parmesan so it melts smoothly into the cream.
• Skipping the Pasta Water
  This starchy water is a natural emulsifier—it helps the sauce cling to the pasta better than cream alone.
• Overcooking the Pasta After Mixing
  Once combined with sauce, remove from heat. Continued cooking can turn your pasta too soft, ruining the texture.

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

Fresh Green Salad

A crisp salad with lemon vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the cheese sauce.

Garlic Bread or Breadsticks

Perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce left on the plate.

Roasted Broccoli

Its slightly bitter edge and crunch pairs beautifully with the cheesy, soft pasta.

Cherry Tomato Salad

Bright and acidic, this simple side brings a pop of freshness to every bite.

Cucumber Yogurt Dip with Veggies

A cool, creamy counterpoint that refreshes your palate between bites.

Lemon Asparagus

Lightly sautéed or roasted asparagus with lemon zest brightens the entire meal.

Antipasto Skewers

Skewers of olives, mozzarella balls, salami, and roasted peppers make a fun, easy appetizer or side.

A Glass of White Wine

A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the garlicky richness beautifully.

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Storage Instructions

If you’ve got leftovers (lucky you!), Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken stores beautifully:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. The sauce may thicken, so add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to loosen it up.
• Freezer: While you can freeze it, the creamy sauce may separate slightly when thawed. If you do, freeze in a sealed container for up to 1 month, then reheat gently on the stove with added cream or broth.
• Reheating: For best texture, reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a bit of added liquid. Microwave works in a pinch—cover and heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories: ~620
• Protein: 38g
• Fat: 34g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Cholesterol: 145mg
• Sodium: 580mg

These values may vary based on specific ingredients used (especially cheese and cream types). Use them as a general guide.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?

I prefer boneless, skinless chicken thighs for their juiciness and flavor, but chicken breasts work just as well if you like leaner meat. Just be sure not to overcook them.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can cook the pasta and chicken in advance and store them separately. When you’re ready to eat, reheat and toss everything with the freshly made sauce for the best texture.

How do I keep the cheese sauce from clumping?

Use low heat when stirring in the parmesan and make sure it’s freshly grated. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. It’s creamy, cheesy, and comforting—most kids love it. You can even reduce the garlic if your little ones prefer milder flavors.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Definitely! Just leave out the chicken or replace it with sautéed mushrooms, roasted cauliflower, or crispy tofu. The sauce is delicious on its own.

How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Toss in spinach, peas, broccoli, or zucchini. Add them to the sauce right before mixing in the pasta so they stay tender and bright.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a mix of milk and a spoonful of cream cheese. The texture will vary slightly but still be creamy.

What’s the best wine pairing for this dish?

A dry white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully with the garlic and parmesan. If you prefer red, go for something light like a Pinot Noir.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the kind of dinner that checks every box: comforting, easy to make, and endlessly adaptable. With its creamy, cheesy richness and tender, flavorful chicken, it turns a simple weeknight into something special. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, prepping for guests, or just treating yourself, this dish always delivers. Once you try it, I wouldn’t be surprised if it finds a regular spot in your dinner rotation.

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