Irresistible Recipes with Chicken and Bow Tie Pasta – Easy & Delicious

Chicken and bow tie pasta make a fantastic combination for a quick and satisfying meal. The versatility of these ingredients allows for a variety of flavors, from creamy garlic parmesan to spicy Cajun-inspired dishes. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or a meal-prep option, these recipes are simple, delicious, and packed with protein.

In this article, we’ll explore some of the best chicken and bow tie pasta recipes, highlighting different flavors and variations. Plus, we’ll share expert tips on cooking pasta perfectly, the best sauces to pair with your dish, and common mistakes to avoid.

Why Choose Chicken and Bow Tie Pasta?

Chicken and bow tie pasta, also known as farfalle, is a perfect duo for pasta lovers. Here’s why:

1. Versatility in Flavors

• You can create creamy, cheesy, spicy, or even light and healthy dishes using different ingredients and sauces.
• Works well with Alfredo, tomato-based, pesto, and even Cajun-seasoned sauces.

2. Protein-Packed & Satisfying

• Chicken provides lean protein, making it a nutritious option for a balanced meal.
• Adding veggies or extra protein like beef sausage (a great addition for extra flavor) enhances the dish even more.

3. Easy to Cook & Meal Prep Friendly

• Bow tie pasta holds sauces well, ensuring every bite is flavorful.
• You can make big batches and store them in the fridge or freezer for easy meals. (Check out these Easy Ground Beef Freezer Recipes for Meal Prep for more meal prep ideas!)

Now, let’s dive into some delicious chicken and bow tie pasta recipes!

Classic Recipes Chicken and Bow Tie Pasta

A simple yet delicious pasta dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner. This recipe combines tender chicken, perfectly cooked bow tie pasta, and a light garlic butter sauce that enhances the flavors without overpowering them.

Ingredients

For the Pasta & Chicken:

• 2 cups bow tie pasta (farfalle)
• 2 chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
• ½ cup chicken broth
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 2 tbsp butter
• ¼ cup chopped parsley

Optional Add-ins:

• Beef sausage (sliced for an extra protein boost)
• Cherry tomatoes
• Mushrooms
• Spinach

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bow Tie Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add bow tie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (about 10 minutes).
3. Drain the pasta and set it aside. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add cubed chicken, season with salt, black pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Pour in chicken broth and stir to deglaze the pan. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked chicken back to the pan.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Toss in the cooked bow tie pasta and mix well.
2. Sprinkle in Parmesan cheese and add some reserved pasta water if needed to create a silky sauce.
3. Stir in chopped parsley and mix until everything is well combined.
4. Optional: Add sliced beef sausage for an extra layer of flavor.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!

• Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.
• Pair it with garlic bread or a fresh side salad.

Why This Recipe Works

✅ Light yet flavorful: The garlic butter sauce keeps it fresh and simple.
✅ Customizable: Add beef sausage, veggies, or swap chicken for shrimp.
✅ Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes!

If you love pasta dishes, check out these General Pasta Recipes for more ideas!

Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bow Tie Pasta

This creamy garlic parmesan chicken bow tie pasta is rich, comforting, and packed with flavor. The combination of tender chicken, a velvety parmesan cream sauce, and perfectly cooked bow tie pasta makes it an instant favorite.

Ingredients

For the Pasta & Chicken:

• 2 cups bow tie pasta
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ cup baby spinach (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped parsley

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bow Tie Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook the bow tie pasta until al dente (about 10 minutes).
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Season the diced chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth and let it simmer for 2 minutes, scraping any bits from the pan.
4. Reduce heat to low and add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth.
5. Season with Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes (if using).

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet.
2. Stir in the bow tie pasta, mixing until fully coated in the sauce.
3. Add baby spinach, letting it wilt for a minute.
4. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

• Garnish with chopped parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
• Pairs perfectly with garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

Why This Recipe Works

✔ Ultra creamy: The heavy cream and Parmesan create a rich, smooth sauce.
✔ Quick and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
✔ Versatile: Add mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or beef sausage for extra flavor.

For more delicious pasta dishes, check out these Delicious Ground Beef Pasta Recipes.

Spicy Cajun Chicken and Bow Tie Pasta

If you love bold flavors, this spicy Cajun chicken and bow tie pasta is the perfect dish. The smoky Cajun seasoning, tender chicken, and creamy sauce make this an irresistible meal.

Ingredients

For the Pasta & Chicken:

• 2 cups bow tie pasta
• 2 chicken breasts, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder

For the Spicy Cajun Sauce:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
• ½ cup diced bell peppers (red and yellow)
• ½ cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
• ¼ cup chopped parsley

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bow Tie Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook bow tie pasta according to package instructions.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Season the sliced chicken with Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Sauté the chicken for 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and slightly crispy.
4. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Spicy Cajun Sauce

1. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
3. Stir in bell peppers and cherry tomatoes, cooking for 2 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and simmer for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Reduce heat and add heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and Cajun seasoning. Stir until smooth.
6. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra spice.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and mix well.
2. Add bow tie pasta, tossing until fully coated in the creamy Cajun sauce.
3. If needed, add some reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce.
4. Stir in chopped parsley.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

• Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs before serving.
• Serve with garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables.

Why This Recipe Works

✔ Bold & Spicy: Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes add a smoky heat.
✔ Creamy & Flavorful: The sauce balances the spice with its rich, cheesy texture.
✔ Easy to Customize: Swap chicken for shrimp or add beef sausage for extra protein.

Looking for more comforting meals? Try this Dinty Moore Beef Stew Recipe for another hearty dish.

Healthy Chicken and Bow Tie Pasta with Vegetables

For a lighter yet delicious meal, this healthy chicken and bow tie pasta with vegetables is the perfect choice. It’s packed with lean protein, fiber-rich veggies, and a light sauce that enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

Ingredients

For the Pasta & Chicken:

• 2 cups bow tie pasta
• 2 chicken breasts, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika

For the Light Vegetable Sauce:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup zucchini, diced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ cup broccoli florets
• ½ cup red bell pepper, sliced
• ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• ¼ cup chopped basil

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bow Tie Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook bow tie pasta until al dente, about 10 minutes.
3. Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the diced chicken with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked.
4. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for about 1 minute.
3. Stir in zucchini, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, and red bell pepper.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
5. Pour in chicken broth and let simmer for another 2 minutes.

Step 4: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet.
2. Toss in the cooked bow tie pasta, mixing everything together.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese and mix until evenly coated.
4. Add chopped basil and a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
5. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

• Serve immediately, garnished with extra basil and Parmesan cheese.
• Pair it with a side salad or whole wheat garlic bread for a balanced meal.

Why This Recipe Works

✔ Nutritious & Light: Packed with vegetables and lean protein.
✔ Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
✔ Customizable: Add spinach, mushrooms, or beef sausage for extra flavor.

For more comforting dishes, try this Hawaiian Beef Stew Recipe for another tasty option.

Tips for Perfectly Cooked Bow Tie Pasta

Cooking bow tie pasta (farfalle) correctly ensures the best texture and taste in your dishes. Follow these expert tips for perfectly cooked pasta every time.

1. Use the Right Amount of Water

• Always use at least 4-6 quarts of water per pound of pasta.
• This prevents the pasta from sticking together and allows even cooking.

2. Salt the Water Generously

• Add 1-2 tablespoons of salt to boiling water before adding pasta.
• Salt enhances the pasta’s natural flavor and helps it absorb sauces better.

3. Cook Until Al Dente

• Follow the package instructions but start checking 2 minutes before the suggested time.
• The pasta should be firm but tender when bitten—this is called “al dente.”
• Overcooked pasta becomes mushy and doesn’t hold sauce well.

4. Don’t Rinse the Pasta

• After draining, do not rinse the pasta unless you’re making a cold pasta salad.
• Rinsing removes the natural starch that helps sauces stick to the pasta.

5. Save Some Pasta Water

• Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
• The starchy water helps thicken sauces and adds a silky texture.

Best Sauces for Chicken and Bow Tie Pasta

Pairing the right sauce with chicken and bow tie pasta enhances the dish’s flavor and texture. Here are some of the best options:

1. Classic Alfredo Sauce

• A rich, creamy sauce made from butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese.
• Works well in Creamy Garlic Parmesan Chicken Bow Tie Pasta.

2. Light Lemon Garlic Sauce

• A simple blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and parsley.
• Ideal for a lighter, healthier pasta dish.

3. Spicy Cajun Cream Sauce

• A combination of Cajun seasoning, heavy cream, and garlic.
• Adds a smoky, spicy kick to pasta dishes like Spicy Cajun Chicken Bow Tie Pasta.

4. Tomato Basil Marinara

• A classic sauce made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, basil, and olive oil.
• Great for a simple, dairy-free pasta option.

Looking for more pasta inspiration? Check out these General Pasta Recipes for more sauce ideas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To make the best chicken and bow tie pasta, avoid these common cooking mistakes:

1. Overcooking the Pasta

• Always cook until al dente and avoid overcooking, which makes pasta mushy.

2. Not Seasoning the Pasta Water

• Unsalted water leads to bland pasta. Always add enough salt for flavor.

3. Using Too Much or Too Little Sauce

• A well-balanced pasta dish should have just enough sauce to coat the pasta, not drown it.

4. Adding Cheese Too Early

• Cheese should be added at the end of cooking to avoid clumping.

For more hearty dishes, check out this Beef Tortellini Pasta Recipe for another delicious pasta option.

Variations and Substitutions

Chicken and bow tie pasta can be customized in many ways to fit different dietary needs and flavor preferences. Here are some great variations and substitutions to try.

1. Gluten-Free and Dairy-Free Options

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bow tie pasta made from rice, quinoa, or chickpeas.
• Dairy-Free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a creamy yet dairy-free sauce.
• Butter Alternative: Use olive oil or plant-based butter.

2. High-Protein Variations

• Add beef sausage for extra protein and a smoky flavor.
• Try ground turkey or shrimp as an alternative to chicken.
• Mix in chickpeas or white beans for a vegetarian protein boost.

3. Vegetarian Alternatives

• Replace chicken with mushrooms, roasted eggplant, or tofu for a plant-based version.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a fully vegetarian dish.
• Swap Parmesan for vegan cheese or omit cheese for a lighter meal.

Looking for more creative ways to use ground beef? Try these Easy Ground Beef Freezer Recipes for Meal Prep for additional meal prep ideas.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make the chicken and bow tie pasta ahead of time?

Yes, you can cook the pasta and chicken in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat in a skillet with a little broth or reserved pasta water to refresh the sauce.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to restore creaminess.

3. Can I freeze chicken and bow tie pasta?

Yes, but creamy sauces don’t always freeze well. For best results, freeze the cooked chicken and pasta separately in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with fresh sauce.

4. What vegetables go well with chicken and bow tie pasta?

Popular additions include spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, broccoli, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini. These vegetables add color, texture, and nutrients.

5. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?

The best way is to reheat it on the stove over medium-low heat, adding a little broth, milk, or reserved pasta water to keep the sauce from drying out. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as it can make the pasta rubbery.

6. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes! While bow tie pasta works well, you can substitute it with penne, rotini, fusilli, or rigatoni. The key is to use a pasta shape that holds the sauce well.

For another comforting beef dish, check out this Dinty Moore Beef Stew Recipe for a hearty alternative.

7. What Do I Do with Leftover Smoked Chicken?

Leftover smoked chicken is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some great ideas:

• Make a Chicken Salad – Shred the chicken and mix it with mayo, celery, and seasonings for a smoky chicken salad.
• Add to Pasta or Rice Dishes – Toss it into creamy pasta, fried rice, or a grain bowl for extra protein.
• Make Tacos or Wraps – Use smoked chicken in tacos with fresh toppings like salsa, avocado, and cheese.
• Use in Soups or Stews – Add shredded smoked chicken to soups like chicken tortilla soup or gumbo for added depth of flavor.
• Turn into BBQ Chicken Pizza – Spread BBQ sauce on a pizza crust, add smoked chicken, red onions, and cheese for a delicious homemade pizza.
• Create a Breakfast Hash – Mix smoked chicken with roasted potatoes, onions, and eggs for a hearty breakfast.

8. How Long Is Leftover Smoked Chicken Good For?

Proper storage is key to keeping smoked chicken safe to eat.

• Refrigerated: Store leftover smoked chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Frozen: If you’re not eating it within a few days, freeze it in a sealed freezer bag or airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Signs It’s Bad: If the chicken has an off smell, slimy texture, or discoloration, it’s best to discard it.

9. How to Cook a Chicken That Is Already Smoked?

Since smoked chicken is already cooked, it only needs to be reheated. Here’s how:

• Oven Method (Best for Keeping Moisture)
  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
  2. Wrap the smoked chicken in foil and add a few tablespoons of broth or water.
  3. Heat for 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
  4. Uncover for the last 5 minutes if you want crispy skin.
• Stovetop Method (Quick & Easy)
  1. Slice or shred the smoked chicken.
  2. Heat a pan over medium heat with a bit of butter or oil.
  3. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Microwave Method (For Convenience)
  1. Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate.
  2. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
  3. Heat in 30-second intervals until warm.

10. What Can I Make with Leftover Cooked Chicken?

There are plenty of creative ways to use leftover cooked chicken:

• Chicken Enchiladas – Roll shredded chicken in tortillas with cheese and enchilada sauce, then bake.
• Chicken Stir-Fry – Sauté chicken with veggies and soy sauce for a quick meal.
• Buffalo Chicken Dip – Mix shredded chicken with cream cheese, hot sauce, and ranch dressing for a delicious dip.
• Chicken Quesadillas – Layer chicken, cheese, and veggies in a tortilla and cook until crispy.
• Chicken Pot Pie – Use cooked chicken in a creamy filling and bake with a pie crust.
• Chicken Fried Rice – Toss chicken with rice, eggs, and veggies in a wok for a tasty dish.

Leftover chicken can easily be repurposed into quick, delicious meals without wasting any food.

Conclusion

Chicken and bow tie pasta is a versatile, delicious, and easy-to-make dish that suits any occasion. Whether you prefer a creamy parmesan sauce, a spicy Cajun kick, or a light veggie-packed version, there’s a recipe for everyone.

By following the tips in this guide—such as cooking pasta al dente, choosing the right sauce, and avoiding common mistakes—you can create the perfect meal every time. Plus, with the different variations and substitutions, this dish can easily be adapted to fit different dietary needs.

For more pasta inspiration, check out these Delicious Ground Beef Pasta Recipes for even more flavorful meal ideas.