Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Rich, creamy, and irresistibly flavorful—Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the kind of dish that effortlessly blends comfort and elegance on one plate. The tender bowtie pasta is cloaked in a luscious, velvety cheese sauce enhanced with garlic and herbs, while the pan-seared chicken is seasoned with bold parmesan and smoky spices, then grilled to golden perfection. Every bite delivers a mouthful of creamy indulgence balanced with the savory depth of the chicken.

Whether you're cooking for a special dinner, craving a hearty weeknight meal, or looking for new dinner ideas that are guaranteed crowd-pleasers, this easy recipe will rise to the occasion. With a quick preparation time and big, bold flavors, this dish is a must-try for pasta lovers, garlic fanatics, and anyone seeking food ideas that taste like they came straight from a cozy bistro.

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

• It’s Comfort Food Elevated: The combination of cheesy pasta and savory chicken feels indulgent yet refined.
• Fast and Family-Friendly: It’s perfect for busy weeknights but impressive enough for entertaining guests.
• Customizable: Swap the protein, change the pasta, or add vegetables—this dish welcomes your creativity.
• Irresistible Flavors: Garlic, parmesan, herbs, and perfectly cooked chicken make for unforgettable bites every time.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Before diving into the cooking, it’s helpful to understand which tools will make your process smoother—and why each is essential for this dish.

• Large Pot: You’ll need a big pot to boil the bowtie pasta evenly without clumping. A wide base helps prevent overboiling and ensures even cooking.
• Cast Iron or Nonstick Skillet: For searing the garlic parmesan chicken, a heavy-duty skillet helps lock in flavor and achieve that golden-brown crust.
• Saucepan: The creamy cheese sauce deserves its own space. A small saucepan with even heat distribution will ensure the sauce doesn’t scorch.
• Tongs or Spatula: These are vital for flipping and handling the chicken pieces without tearing them apart.
• Colander: Drain your pasta quickly and cleanly. Shake off all excess water so the sauce adheres well.
• Whisk: Use this to bring your cheese sauce together, especially to blend the cheese smoothly into the cream without clumps.
• Cutting Board & Sharp Knife: You’ll be mincing garlic, chopping parsley, and slicing chicken—don’t skip a reliable knife.

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Preparation Tips

• Pound Your Chicken Evenly: To get evenly cooked chicken breasts or thighs, gently pound them to a uniform thickness before seasoning. This ensures no dry or undercooked sections.
• Salt Your Pasta Water Generously: This is your only chance to flavor the pasta itself. The water should taste slightly like the sea.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Scoop out a cup before draining. It’s liquid gold for adjusting the creaminess of your cheese sauce later.
• Use Room Temp Ingredients for the Sauce: Cold cheese or cream can cause your sauce to seize or separate. Let them sit out a few minutes before cooking.
• Rest the Chicken: After cooking, let the chicken sit for a few minutes before slicing. This locks in the juices and keeps it tender.
• Add Herbs Last: Stir in fresh parsley at the end to preserve color and brightness.

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Ingredients for Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate this creamy, flavor-packed dish. Try to use fresh ingredients for the best results.

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For the Garlic Parmesan Chicken

• 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup grated parmesan cheese
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

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For the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
• Optional: ¼ cup reserved pasta water (to adjust sauce consistency)

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Step-by-Step: How to Make Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Follow these steps to bring this creamy, cheesy, and savory dish to life from scratch.

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Step 1: Season the Chicken

Pat your chicken dry and place it on a clean surface. Rub both sides with olive oil, then evenly coat with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, pepper, and grated parmesan. Let it rest while you prep the pasta.

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Step 2: 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. Before draining, scoop out ¼ cup of the pasta water and set aside. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

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Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add a drizzle of oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken. Cook for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes, then slice into strips or bite-sized pieces.

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Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Slowly stir in the heavy cream, letting it warm for 2–3 minutes. Add parmesan, mozzarella, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir until the cheese has fully melted into a creamy sauce.

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Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta into the cheese sauce. If the sauce is too thick, use a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Toss until all the pasta is well coated. Stir in chopped parsley.

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Step 6: Plate and Serve

Arrange the creamy bowtie pasta on a plate or in a large serving bowl. Top with the sliced garlic parmesan chicken. Sprinkle more parsley and a touch of grated parmesan on top if desired.

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Notes

• Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may prevent the sauce from becoming silky smooth. Freshly grated parmesan and mozzarella melt better and taste richer.
• Customize the Heat: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken seasoning if you want a spicy kick.
• Double the Sauce: If you love extra creamy pasta or want leftovers to stay moist, consider doubling the cheese sauce portion.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Chicken: Dry chicken ruins the texture contrast in this dish. Sear over medium-high heat and remove once the internal temp hits 165°F.
• Undersalting Pasta Water: If the water isn’t properly salted, the pasta will taste bland—even with all the cheese sauce on top.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: That starchy water is key for adjusting sauce thickness without watering it down.
• Using Cold Dairy: Adding cold cream or cheese straight into the pan can lead to curdling. Let dairy ingredients come to room temp first.
• Crowding the Pan: When searing chicken, avoid cramming it all into the skillet at once. Work in batches if needed to get that beautiful crust.

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

This dish is rich and creamy on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal even more. Whether you're hosting or just want a balanced dinner, these options will complement the pasta beautifully.

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8 Recommendations

1. Garlic Bread or Cheesy Breadsticks

Crunchy, buttery, and perfect for scooping up leftover sauce—this is a classic pasta pairing.

2. Simple Arugula Salad

A peppery, lemony arugula salad cuts through the richness of the cheese sauce and refreshes the palate.

3. Steamed Broccoli

The subtle bitterness and texture of broccoli balance the creaminess of the dish and add a healthy boost.

4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Crispy roasted sprouts with a hint of balsamic glaze bring depth and contrast to the plate.

5. Caprese Skewers

Tomato, mozzarella, and basil on skewers drizzled with balsamic reduction—fresh, colorful, and perfect alongside pasta.

6. Creamy Tomato Soup

For cooler days, a warm tomato soup can create a cozy, comforting meal with layered flavors.

7. Grilled Asparagus

Lightly charred and seasoned, asparagus adds a subtle crunch and earthiness that complements the cheese and garlic.

8. Crispy Caesar Salad

Romaine, croutons, parmesan, and Caesar dressing add crunch and tang to balance the creamy pasta.

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Storage Instructions

Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken stores well, making it ideal for meal prep or leftovers. Here’s how to keep it fresh and flavorful:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Freezer: While the pasta can be frozen, the cream-based sauce may separate upon thawing. If freezing, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months and reheat slowly while stirring in extra cream or cheese.
• Reheating Tips: For best results, reheat in a saucepan over low heat, adding a bit of cream or reserved pasta water to restore creaminess.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Serves 4–6)

• Calories: ~650 kcal
• Protein: 38g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fat: 35g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Cholesterol: 130mg
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 670mg
• Trans Fat: 0g

Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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1. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While bowtie (farfalle) pasta holds the sauce well, you can substitute with penne, rotini, or even fettuccine.

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2. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich. Add a little flour or cream cheese to thicken it up if needed.

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3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, roasted zucchini, or spinach for a vegetarian version.

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4. How do I prevent the cheese sauce from clumping?

Use freshly grated cheese and add it gradually to warm (not boiling) cream. Stir constantly and avoid high heat.

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5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, but for best results, cook the pasta and sauce separately and store them in airtight containers. Combine and heat just before serving.

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6. Is it okay to use pre-cooked chicken?

You can! Shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient shortcut. Just heat it in the skillet with some garlic and seasoning before adding to the pasta.

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7. How spicy is this dish?

This recipe isn’t spicy at all. If you enjoy heat, sprinkle in crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne to the chicken seasoning.

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8. Can I use pre-shredded cheese from the bag?

You can, but it may not melt as smoothly due to anti-caking agents. For best results, grate your own parmesan and mozzarella.

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Conclusion

Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken isn’t just a meal—it’s a warm, comforting experience packed with bold flavors, creamy textures, and a hint of elegance. It’s a flexible recipe that invites your creativity while staying true to what makes it special: garlic-infused, parmesan-loaded chicken paired with cheesy, velvety pasta. Whether you're feeding your family or cooking to impress, this dish delivers every time. It's a keeper in any recipe rotation!

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