Pic Credit: Michelle Seace Traino
The chicken bowtie pasta is a tasty dish which uses tender chicken, delicious farfalle pasta, and a creamy sauce therefore it can be suitable for family meals or parties. This recipe is the best it is very simple to make and you can even modify it by adding the preferred vegetable or spice.
If you are in search for a simple meal to whip up during weeknights, or a special dish you can cook to serve during dinner parties, this chicken bowtie pasta dish is sure to be one that you’ll enjoy.
RECIPE INGREDIENTS
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish
MEASURES & PRECAUTIONS
- Measure Ingredients Accurately: You should also make sure that all the ingredients are measured as accurately as possible.
- Cook Pasta Al Dente: To avoid making the pasta mushy, cook it according to the package directions until it is tender yet still slightly firm.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and herbs so that they will add to the taste of the food in the dish.
- Check Chicken Doneness: Make certain that chicken is thoroughly cooked and reaches the recommended internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Season and taste as you go while adding salt, and pepper according to your liking.
Delicious Chicken Bowtie Pasta Recipe
INGREDIENTS NOTES
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Bowtie Pasta: Farfalle pasta is good with sauce because of its structure but you can use any type of pasta you prefer.
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Chicken: Best results of this recipe will be achieved with fresh or thoroughly defrosted chicken breasts, although rotisserie chicken can be used.
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Heavy Cream: For a less heavy version, replace with half-and-half or a non-dairy product.
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Spinach: Organic fresh baby spinach is used for color and nutrition but can be substituted with kale or other preferences.
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Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated cheese melts better than pre-grated varieties, enhancing the sauce's creaminess.
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
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Cook the Pasta: In a large pot, heat water with salt on high heat until boiling. Include the bowtie pasta and let it cook until it is almost done or al dente as recommended on its package. Before you drain the pasta, set aside about ½ cup of the pasta water.
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Prepare the Chicken: In the meantime cook pasta according to instructions, then in a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Now that you’ve bought chicken breasts, it’s time to season them with salt and pepper. Put them in the skillet and fry for about 6-7 on every side until they are nicely browned and cooked. Take out from the skillet and let a few minutes before slicing.
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Sauté Vegetables: In the same pan, you can add chopped onions and cook until they become tender (for 3-4 min). Now stir in with the minced garlic for 1 minute until the garlic becomes aromatic.
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Make the Sauce: Put the cherry tomatoes into the skillet and sauté briefly until they begin to release juice (approximately 3 minutes). Start by adding heavy cream, and chicken broth and mix it properly. Bring to a simmer.
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Combine Ingredients: Dice the cooked chicken and add it back into skillet with cooked pasta and spinach. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix them until evenly incorporated. If the sauce is too thick, add the remaining pasta water gradually in order to achieve the right thickness of the sauce.
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Finish with Cheese: Finally add grated parsley cheese then stir until the cheese has melt and make the sauce creamy. You may add some salt, pepper or Italian seasoning for seasoning of your choice.
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Serve Immediately: For additional top dressing, sprinkle with fresh BASIL before serving hot.
RECIPE TIPS & VARIATIONS
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Add Vegetables: Incorporate bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for added nutrition.
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Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
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Make it Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or cheddar cheese for an extra cheesy version.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for enhanced flavor.
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Meal Prep Friendly: This dish can be made ahead of time; just reheat gently on the stove.
EQUIPMENT
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Large pot for boiling pasta
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Large skillet or frying pan
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Cutting board and knife
Note
SERVING TIPS 💡
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Serve in large bowls topped with additional Parmesan cheese.
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Pair with garlic bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
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Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor.
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
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Reheat gently on low heat to prevent sauce separation.
If you're looking for another flavorful meal, check out this easy Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe.
