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: 8 oz bow tie pasta; 4 cups broccoli florets; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 lb chicken breast, sliced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Juice of 1/2 lemon

Highlighted under: Everyday Meals

I absolutely love this Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli recipe because it brings together fresh, vibrant ingredients in a way that just feels comforting yet upscale. Every time I prepare this dish, it’s a hit with my family, and the colorful presentation makes it perfect for gatherings. The combination of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and al dente pasta all coated in a creamy sauce is just irresistible! Plus, it takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.

Created by

Theodora Blythe

Last updated on 2026-02-27T12:10:35.993Z

When I first tried this Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli, I was amazed at how well the flavors blended together. I used fresh ingredients that really shine, and I think that’s the secret to making this dish pop. The minute I added a splash of lemon juice at the end, it elevated the entire meal by adding brightness that complements the creamy sauce.

One tip I learned is to cook the pasta until it's just slightly under al dente. It will continue to cook in the pan when you mix it with the sauce, absorbing all those delicious flavors. Trust me, this little trick makes a world of difference!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Comforting blend of flavors that everyone loves
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Healthy ingredients that balance well in every bite

Choosing the Right Ingredients

When making Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli, the quality of your ingredients can make a significant difference. For the pasta, opt for a high-quality bow tie pasta that can maintain its shape and texture during cooking. A whole wheat or gluten-free version can be a healthier choice if you have dietary restrictions. Fresh broccoli florets not only add vibrant color but also provide a crisp texture that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.

The chicken breast is the star protein of this dish, and using fresh, high-quality chicken will enhance the overall flavor. It's best to slice the chicken thinly to ensure even cooking. If you’re in a pinch, rotisserie chicken can be a great time-saver; just shred it and add it to the sauce, reducing the cooking time significantly. Remember to adjust the seasoning to accommodate pre-seasoned rotisserie options.

Perfecting Your Sauce

The creamy sauce is where the magic happens, and the key to a perfect sauce is how you combine the ingredients. After cooking the garlic, be careful not to overcook it; you want it to be fragrant but not browned. When adding the heavy cream, simmer it gently to avoid curdling. Stir in the Parmesan cheese slowly to achieve a glossy finish. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to reach the desired consistency without diluting the flavor.

Adding a squeeze of lemon juice at the end brightens the richness of the sauce. It balances the creaminess and adds a touch of acidity that enhances the flavors. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes along with the garlic. The subtle spice can elevate the dish and make it more exciting without overpowering the other flavors.

Serving and Storing

This dish can be served immediately after cooking for the best texture, but if you need to prep ahead, it’s perfect for that as well. Allow the pasta dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring back the sauce’s creamy consistency.

For a unique twist, consider serving the pasta in baked individual ramekins. Top with additional Parmesan and breadcrumbs, then bake until golden and bubbly. This gives a delightful crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy pasta. Don't hesitate to experiment with different vegetables; asparagus, peas, or even sun-dried tomatoes can be delightful additions that maintain this dish's balance while varying the flavor profile.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

8 oz bow tie pasta
4 cups broccoli florets
2 tbsp olive oil

For the Sauce

1 lb chicken breast, sliced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Juice of 1/2 lemon

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before starting for a seamless cooking experience!

Steps

Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil, add the bow tie pasta and broccoli florets. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Make the Sauce

Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream, and gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Allow the sauce to simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Combine

Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat through.

Serve hot, with extra Parmesan cheese on top if desired!

Pro Tips

For an extra crunch, try adding some toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs on top before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re wondering about alternative cooking methods, you can also prepare this dish in a pressure cooker for a quick meal. After sautéing the chicken, add the pasta and broccoli, along with the sauce ingredients, sealing the lid and cooking on high pressure for just 4-5 minutes. This method locks in moisture and flavors, but be mindful to release the steam quickly to avoid overcooking the pasta.

A common question pertains to the consistency of the sauce. If you find the sauce too runny, try simmering it a bit longer after adding the Parmesan to thicken up. On the other hand, if it becomes too thick, you can simply whisk in a bit of chicken broth or reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Just be careful not to overpower the flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a lighter version of this recipe, consider substituting half of the heavy cream with low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk. This will maintain some creaminess while reducing calorie content. If you're lactose intolerant, dairy-free cheese can effectively replace the Parmesan, although you might need to adjust the seasoning since some alternatives can be saltier or sweeter.

If you're looking to incorporate more vegetables, zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash can replace the bow tie pasta for a low-carb option. You can sauté them briefly before adding the sauce to soften them slightly. Keep in mind that this could alter the cooking time slightly, so adjust accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli is a great alternative and can be added directly to the pasta during 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 for a lighter version.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Adding red pepper flakes to the sauce will give it a nice kick!

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Yes, this pasta can be stored in the fridge and reheated for up to 3 days.