Herbed Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Parmesan Alfredo

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Creamy, cheesy, and downright irresistible—this Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the ultimate comfort food that wraps you in warmth with every bite. Imagine tender bowtie pasta coated in a rich cheese sauce, perfectly seasoned with herbs and a touch of garlic, and paired with golden, juicy chicken that’s been seared to savory perfection.

Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or looking to impress guests with a flavor-packed meal, this recipe is a showstopper. The best part? It looks fancy but comes together easily, making it a weeknight hero and weekend treat all in one.

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

This dish brings together everything we love about hearty meals: tender pasta, flavorful chicken, and creamy cheese sauce. It’s simple enough to make on a busy weeknight, yet satisfying enough to serve at a dinner party. The garlic Parmesan seasoning adds bold flavor without overwhelming the creaminess of the pasta, while the crispy sear on the chicken gives every bite a mouthwatering contrast.

What Kind of Parmesan Should I Use?

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is the best choice here. It melts beautifully into the sauce, giving it that nutty, savory depth that pre-grated versions often lack. If you’re in a pinch, pre-shredded will still work—just be sure it’s high-quality and not the powdered variety from a can.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Each ingredient plays a key role in creating the comforting magic of this dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bowtie pasta (farfalle): This pasta shape holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully, delivering perfect bites every time.
• Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for quick cooking and easy slicing.
• Olive oil: Used to sear the chicken, adding richness and helping the seasoning stick.
• Garlic (minced): Fragrant and flavorful, it’s the base for both the chicken seasoning and cheese sauce.
• Heavy cream: Makes the pasta sauce ultra creamy and indulgent.
• Cream cheese: Adds body and a tangy smoothness to the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Melts into the sauce to bring that signature nutty flavor.
• Italian seasoning: A classic blend that enhances the overall taste with oregano, basil, and thyme.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley (optional): For garnish and a fresh pop of green.

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How To Make the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Generously season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and let it rest.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce heat to medium-low and add a little more olive oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream, then whisk in the cream cheese until smooth. Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss until the bowties are fully coated in the cheesy mixture. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Slice Chicken and Serve

Slice the rested chicken into strips. Serve over a bed of cheesy bowtie pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

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

This recipe serves 4 hungry adults or 6 smaller portions, making it ideal for families or meal prepping. Serve it hot and fresh for the best texture and flavor.

For storing leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to restore the creaminess.

You can also freeze the chicken separately from the pasta for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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

Garlic Bread

A warm slice of garlic bread or cheesy toast makes the perfect vehicle for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Steamed Broccoli

Add some vibrant green to your plate with lightly steamed broccoli or green beans.

Caesar Salad

A fresh Caesar salad brings a crunchy, tangy contrast to the creamy pasta.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or Brussels sprouts would all balance the richness of the dish.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

This light and refreshing side adds brightness and a juicy crunch.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots

Sweet, tangy carrots offer a pop of color and flavor that works beautifully here.

Crusty Artisan Bread

Serve with rustic bread to complement the homey feel of the meal.

Lemon-Infused Sparkling Water

A refreshing beverage like lemon sparkling water helps cut through the creaminess and refresh your palate.

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Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you love this cheesy bowtie pasta with chicken, here are more comforting, flavor-packed meals to try next:

• Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi Lasagna for a seafood twist with irresistible garlicky goodness.
• Creamy Beef and Shells for a one-pan meal with rich, meaty flavor.
• Stovetop Creamy Ground Beef Pasta that’s perfect for quick weekday dinners.
• Cheesy Spinach Stuffed Shells when you’re craving creamy comfort with greens.
• Longhorn Parmesan Crusted Chicken if you love bold, crispy chicken mains.

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a bit of red pepper for heat? Did you swap the pasta shape? I’m always excited to hear your twists and tips.

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