Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

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Creamy, savory, and packed with comfort — Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is the kind of weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug. Picture perfectly al dente bowtie pasta coated in a rich cheese sauce, served next to golden seared chicken thighs bathed in a garlic parmesan glaze. It’s a crowd-pleaser, a family favorite, and surprisingly easy to whip up.

Whether you’re cooking for a hungry household or prepping ahead for the week, this dish delivers big on flavor without complicating your evening. The cheesy pasta pairs harmoniously with the garlicky chicken, creating a balanced, indulgent plate you’ll find yourself returning to again and again.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To make this dish as smooth and efficient as possible, having the right tools on hand is key:

• Large pot – This is crucial for boiling the bowtie pasta evenly and giving it room to cook without clumping.
• Skillet or cast-iron pan – Perfect for getting a golden-brown sear on your chicken and building flavor right in the pan.
• Colander – You’ll need this to quickly and effectively drain the cooked pasta.
• Wooden spoon or spatula – These are gentle on your nonstick or cast-iron surfaces and excellent for stirring the cheese sauce without scratching.
• Meat thermometer – Optional, but useful to ensure your chicken reaches a safe and juicy 165°F inside.

Having these tools ready will save time and help you focus on crafting a delicious, creamy pasta with well-seasoned chicken that’s cooked to perfection.

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Ingredients for the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Here’s a look at the essential components that bring this hearty meal to life:

• Bowtie pasta (farfalle) – Its unique shape holds onto creamy sauces beautifully, giving each bite a perfect cheese-to-pasta ratio.
• Chicken thighs – Juicy and full of flavor, thighs sear well and stay moist during cooking.
• Garlic cloves – Minced garlic infuses the chicken with bold, aromatic depth.
• Parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, nutty richness that ties both pasta and chicken together.
• Heavy cream – The foundation for the creamy cheese sauce.
• Butter – Enhances flavor and creates a silky base for the sauce.
• Olive oil – Helps achieve that golden sear on the chicken.
• Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that complements the garlic and cheese beautifully.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for bringing out all the other flavors.
• Chopped parsley (optional) – Adds a pop of freshness and color.

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How To Make the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil and a bit of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Sear each side for 4–5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce heat to medium and melt butter. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Gradually whisk in parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently until all the pasta is coated with the creamy garlic parmesan goodness.

Step 5: Plate and Garnish

Serve the cheesy pasta alongside the seared garlic parmesan chicken. Sprinkle with chopped parsley for a finishing touch.

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

This dish is best served hot, straight off the stove, with the creamy pasta nestled next to those juicy garlic parmesan chicken thighs. Garnish with a touch of chopped parsley or a sprinkle of extra parmesan if you’re feeling fancy. A side of crusty garlic bread or a light green salad makes it a complete, comforting meal.

To store leftovers, allow everything to cool before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce and keep it from drying out. You can also freeze the pasta and chicken separately for up to 2 months — thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How can I make this recipe lighter?

You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or use a plant-based cream alternative. Opting for chicken breasts instead of thighs can also reduce the fat content.

Can I use a different pasta shape?

Absolutely! Penne, rotini, or shells work great. Just choose something that holds sauce well.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not inherently, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce if you’d like a bit of heat.

What cheeses work besides parmesan?

Parmesan is classic, but you can mix in mozzarella for stretch or a bit of sharp white cheddar for depth.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes! Cook the chicken and pasta separately, and make the sauce when you’re ready to serve. This keeps everything fresh and prevents soggy pasta.

How do I know the chicken is done?

The internal temperature should read 165°F. You can also slice into one to check that it’s no longer pink inside.

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Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?

If you love this cheesy bowtie pasta with garlic parmesan chicken, try these savory favorites next:

• Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce – For a comforting twist with rotini and even more garlic flavor.
• Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta – A veggie-loaded version that’s just as cheesy and satisfying.
• One-Pot Chicken Parmesan Mac & Cheese – A shortcut to indulgence in one pan.
• Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce – Try a hearty beefy variation with a creamy base.
• Sweet & Spicy Garlic Honey BBQ Chicken Pasta – For when you want bold, BBQ-style flavor in your pasta bowl.

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And let me know in the comments how it turned out. Did you go heavy on the garlic or try a different cheese? Maybe you added veggies or served it with wine?

I love seeing how you personalize these recipes. Questions or suggestions are always welcome — let’s cook better, together!

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