Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

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There are dinners that feel like a warm hug after a long day, and Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is exactly that kind of dish. It’s rich, creamy, and full of comforting flavors that bring everyone to the table with big smiles. The tender bowtie pasta swirls through a velvety cheese sauce, while juicy pieces of golden-browned chicken pack in savory depth with every bite.

What makes this recipe even better is how simple it is to pull together. It tastes like something you spent hours making, yet it comes together in under an hour with ingredients you probably already have on hand. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering, this pasta is a crowd-pleaser every time.

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

From the first forkful, this pasta hits all the right notes. The cheese sauce is perfectly balanced between creamy and sharp, thanks to a blend of Parmesan and cheddar. Garlic adds a fragrant depth, and the chicken brings in that hearty, protein-rich element that turns this into a full meal. Bowtie pasta, also known as farfalle, is not just fun to look at—its shape helps capture sauce in every curve and fold.

The real beauty is how customizable this recipe is. You can swap in different cheeses, throw in some spinach or broccoli, or even use rotisserie chicken if you’re short on time. It’s family-friendly, meal-prep-friendly, and practically guaranteed to disappear fast.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Bowtie pasta is the star here, and for good reason. Its unique shape does a fantastic job of holding onto creamy sauces, making every bite rich and flavorful. If you don’t have bowties, penne or rotini will work well too. Avoid long noodles like spaghetti or linguine—they don’t do this sauce justice. For a whole wheat or gluten-free twist, feel free to adapt based on your pantry and dietary needs.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This dish comes together with staple ingredients that blend beautifully for a creamy, cheesy, savory meal. The key is balance—each component plays its part to create that crave-worthy flavor.

• Bowtie Pasta
• Chicken Breasts
• Olive Oil
• Salt and Pepper
• Garlic
• Butter
• Flour
• Milk
• Heavy Cream
• Parmesan Cheese
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• Italian Seasoning

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 al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked. Let it rest, then slice into bite-size pieces.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Sprinkle in flour and cook for a minute to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the milk and cream, stirring until smooth and thickened. Add Parmesan and cheddar, stirring until melted. Sprinkle in Italian seasoning.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Toss the cooked pasta into the sauce, followed by the sliced chicken. Stir gently until everything is coated evenly. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Plate warm and garnish with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if you like. It’s ready to devour.

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

This hearty pasta dish is best served hot and fresh off the stove, when the cheese sauce is at its creamiest and the chicken is juicy and tender. It makes a generous dinner for four to six people, depending on portion sizes. For a cozy family meal or casual dinner with friends, serve it straight from the skillet with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra Parmesan on top.

Leftovers reheat surprisingly well. Store any extras in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between, until heated through.

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

Garlic Bread

The buttery, crisp texture of garlic bread pairs beautifully with the creamy pasta and helps soak up every drop of the cheesy sauce.

Caesar Salad

A chilled Caesar salad with crunchy croutons and tangy dressing brings balance and brightness to the meal.

Roasted Broccoli

Adding a serving of roasted broccoli gives this rich dish a pop of green and a satisfying, caramelized crunch.

Sautéed Green Beans

Green beans lightly sautéed with garlic and lemon add a zesty bite that works well with the bold flavors of the pasta.

Caprese Salad

Juicy tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil with a drizzle of balsamic are a refreshing contrast to the creamy, savory pasta.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

These sweet and tangy carrots add a lovely earthy note and touch of sweetness to round out the plate.

Crispy Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts bring a crispy edge and nutty flavor that enhances the richness of the cheese sauce.

A Light White Wine

If you’re serving adults, a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the garlic and Parmesan beautifully.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If this Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken won your heart, these other comforting meals might just be your next favorite:

• Delicious Garlic Sausage Alfredo Rigatoni for a meaty and creamy weeknight indulgence.
• Easy Chicken Fried Rice when you want a fast, one-pan alternative with bold Asian flavor.
• Creamy Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna if you’re craving a decadent seafood option.
• Cowboy Butter Chicken Linguine for a buttery herb twist with a hint of spice.
• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli when you’re after something earthy and luxurious.

Save This Recipe For Later

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add mushrooms or swap in rotisserie chicken? Maybe threw in some spinach?

I love hearing your twists on these recipes. Feel free to drop questions too—we’re here to make dinnertime easier and tastier together.

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Conclusion

This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken brings together the kind of flavors that feel both familiar and exciting. With juicy chicken, velvety cheese sauce, and pasta that perfectly holds it all together, it’s a dish you’ll want to come back to again and again. It’s easy to make, satisfying to eat, and endlessly adaptable—the very definition of a keeper.

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