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; 2 chicken breasts, diced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Express Plate Creations

I absolutely love making Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli for family dinners. It’s a dish that brings everyone together, and it’s super easy to whip up on a weeknight. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant broccoli, and the fun shape of the bow tie pasta makes it visually appealing as well. Plus, I like to throw in a bit of garlic and Parmesan for that added flavor kick. You can make this dish in about 30 minutes, and it always leaves my family asking for seconds!

Created by

Fiona Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-24T03:13:36.159Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was surprised at how quick and flavorful it turned out to be. The bow tie pasta catches the sauce and little pieces of broccoli perfectly, creating a delightful bite every time. I discovered that sautéing the chicken with garlic first locks in its juices, making it incredibly tender.

Another tip I picked up is to blanch the broccoli just before adding it to the pasta. This method keeps it bright green and vibrant while adding a nice crunch. Overall, it’s become a staple in my kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Deliciously creamy garlic sauce binding together all the ingredients
Colorful dish that’s visually impressive yet simple to prepare
Perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests

Cooking Bow Tie Pasta Perfectly

When preparing bow tie pasta, timing is crucial to achieve the desired al dente texture. You want to start checking the pasta a minute or two before the package instructions indicate. Being vigilant prevents the pasta from becoming mushy, which can happen quickly. Once drained, a quick rinse under cold water helps stop the cooking process, ensuring it retains the perfect bite.

To elevate your dish, consider adding a drizzle of olive oil to the drained pasta to prevent it from sticking as you prepare the other ingredients. This technique not only keeps the pasta separate but also starts infusing it with flavor, enhancing the overall dish.

Creating a Flavorful Sauce

The garlic in this recipe is key for adding depth to the dish. Sautéing the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds, ensures that its oils are released, permeating the chicken and broccoli. Be careful not to overcook the garlic; if it turns brown, it can impart a bitter taste that overshadows the dish's richness.

The chicken broth serves as both a cooking liquid and a flavor enhancer. If you prefer a vegetarian alternative, vegetable broth can easily replace chicken broth without compromising the integrity of the dish. For a richer sauce, you might consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese at the end for added creaminess.

Serving and Storing Tips

When serving, I recommend garnishing with fresh parsley or additional Parmesan cheese to create an appealing presentation. The sprinkle of greenery not only completes the meal visually but also adds a hint of freshness that balances the dish's richness. Serve this pasta dish warm, as the flavors meld beautifully when freshly tossed.

If you have leftovers, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator is an excellent option. This dish generally keeps well for up to three days. Reheating in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth can revive its creamy texture, preventing it from drying out.

Ingredients

Start with these fresh ingredients to make a delicious meal!

Ingredients

8 oz bow tie pasta
2 chicken breasts, diced
2 cups broccoli florets
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have everything, let’s cook!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli!

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Add Broccoli and Garlic

Add the minced garlic and broccoli florets to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is tender but still bright green.

Combine and Serve

Pour in the chicken broth and add the cooked pasta. Toss everything together and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese before serving hot.

Enjoy your meal and feel good about your cooking!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or some red pepper flakes for heat before serving.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe allows for great flexibility with its ingredients. For a healthier twist, you can substitute whole wheat or gluten-free bow tie pasta. This change will maintain the dish's character while catering to different dietary needs, and it's still delicious. Just be sure to follow the cooking instructions on the package since different pasta types may require slightly different cooking times.

If broccoli isn't your favorite, feel free to swap it for other vegetables like asparagus, spinach, or bell peppers. These alternatives can offer a new flavor profile while still providing the necessary nutrients. Just be mindful of the cooking times; vegetables like bell peppers may cook more quickly than broccoli.

Make-Ahead Options

Preparing this dish ahead of time can be a lifesaver on busy nights. You can cook the pasta and chicken, and lightly steam the broccoli earlier in the day. Keep these components separate and toss them together right before serving to preserve texture. This way, everything stays fresh and prevents the pasta from absorbing too much moisture.

Another option for meal prep is to make a double batch and freeze half for later. Ensure it’s stored in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it gently in a skillet. Add a little more chicken broth to bring back the dish's creamy consistency.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with flavors by adding protein variations such as shrimp or turkey. These options can create entirely new dishes that keep mealtime exciting. Simply adjust the cooking time based on the protein of choice, ensuring it's properly cooked through before combining it with the pasta and vegetables.

For an extra layer of flavor, consider incorporating sun-dried tomatoes or olives, which add a Mediterranean flair. These ingredients provide a sweet and tangy punch that pairs beautifully with the creaminess of the sauce and the vibrance of the veggies. Just add them in during the sautéing step for maximum flavor impact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding to the skillet.

→ What can I substitute for chicken?

You can use tofu or shrimp if you prefer a meat-free or seafood option.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

It's best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients ahead of time to make cooking faster.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove.