Name: Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb bowtie pasta (farfalle); 1.5 lbs chicken breasts or thighs 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese 1 cup heavy cream 4 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons butter (for chicken) 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 tablespoons butter (for sauce) 2 tablespoons chopped parsley 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon black pepper

Looking for a weeknight dinner that hits every craving? This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the comfort food combo you didn’t know you needed. Buttery bowtie noodles drenched in a silky, cheesy sauce paired with golden seared chicken that’s bursting with garlic and Parmesan flavor — every bite is pure satisfaction.

The balance of creamy pasta and tender, seasoned chicken makes this dish not just delicious but comforting in a way only cheesy carbs and protein can be. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, it brings big flavor with minimal fuss.

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

Ultra-Creamy Sauce: Rich, cheesy, and garlicky without being overly heavy.
Golden Seared Chicken: Packed with herbs, garlic, and seared until perfectly caramelized.
Family-Friendly: Adults and kids alike will love the flavor combo.
One-Pan Simplicity: Less cleanup, more time to enjoy your meal.
Versatile: Add spinach, mushrooms, or broccoli for extra nutrition.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To bring this creamy pasta and juicy chicken to life, here are the key kitchen tools you’ll want to have:

Large Skillet or Cast Iron Pan: For searing the chicken to golden perfection while locking in juices.
Medium Saucepan: Ideal for boiling pasta and preparing the cheese sauce.
Tongs or Spatula: For flipping the chicken without losing that flavorful crust.
Garlic Press: Helps release the oils for deep, rich garlic flavor.
Whisk: Essential for creating a smooth, lump-free cheese sauce.
Colander: To easily drain the cooked bowtie pasta without sticking.

Each tool plays a vital role in ensuring this recipe comes together efficiently and with professional-level results.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): The unique shape helps hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully.
Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Adds hearty protein and soaks up the garlic-Parmesan marinade.
Parmesan Cheese: Sharp and nutty, it forms the base of the sauce.
Heavy Cream: For a rich, velvety texture in the cheese sauce.
Fresh Garlic: Adds that irresistible punch and depth to the chicken and sauce.
Butter: Enhances flavor while helping brown the chicken and start the sauce base.
Olive Oil: Aids in getting that golden sear on the chicken.
Parsley (fresh or dried): For a pop of herby brightness.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning that enhances every bite.

How To Make the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Marinate and Prep the Chicken

Pat your chicken dry and season it with salt, pepper, minced garlic, and a bit of olive oil. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to absorb flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil the bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1 cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high. Sear the chicken 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and let rest.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant, then whisk in heavy cream and Parmesan. Simmer until thickened. Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen if needed.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add cooked bowtie pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Slice the rested chicken and serve on top. Garnish with chopped parsley and extra cheese.

Serving and Storing This Dish

Serve this pasta dish hot and fresh, straight from the pan to your plate. It’s perfect for dinner parties or cozy nights in. Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a full meal.

For storing, place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Freezing isn’t recommended as the dairy sauce may separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the chicken juicy?

Make sure not to overcook it! Sear on high heat to lock in moisture, then let it rest before slicing.

Can I use a different pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, rigatoni, or rotini all work well if you don’t have bowtie pasta on hand.

Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan?

Freshly grated is best for a smooth, creamy sauce. Pre-grated may not melt as well.

What veggies go well with this recipe?

Spinach, mushrooms, or steamed broccoli are great additions to the creamy pasta base.

Can I make it lighter?

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half and use less butter for a lighter version.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you love this cheesy garlic combo, here are a few more irresistible dishes you should try next:

Save This Pin For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can come back to it any time: Kitchen By Kate Pinterest

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add extra cheese or sneak in veggies? I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook better, together.