Bow Tie Pasta With Chicken And Broccoli

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Chicken And Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz bow tie pasta; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen

I always find that Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli is a comforting dish that brings back lovely memories of family dinners. The vibrant colors of the broccoli paired with the pasta create an inviting presentation, and the flavors are fresh and satisfying. Cooking the chicken just right gives it a juicy tenderness, while the garlic enhances the overall richness. It’s the type of recipe that makes a busy weeknight feel special, and I often find myself craving it whenever I want something wholesome and delicious.

Created by

Gemma Hollis

Last updated on 2026-02-28T03:49:34.638Z

When I initially tried this recipe, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The tender chicken and bright green broccoli made such a delightful combination, and I loved how the bow tie pasta added a playful touch. The secret is in the garlic and olive oil, which infuse the pasta with a rich flavor that emphasizes the freshness of the vegetables.

Over time, I've experimented with adding different herbs and spices, but I always return to the classic seasoning of salt, pepper, and Parmesan cheese. The creaminess from the cheese combines beautifully with the chicken, making each bite a wonderful taste of home.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Deliciously balanced flavors that come together perfectly
Quick cooking time ideal for busy weeknights
Nutrient-rich ingredients make it a wholesome meal

The Role of Broccoli

Broccoli not only adds a vibrant green color to the dish but also an important nutritional punch. Rich in vitamins C and K, this cruciferous vegetable enhances both the health benefits and the texture of your pasta dish. When cooking, aim for bright green florets that are tender but still crisp. If you prefer a softer texture, you can steam the broccoli separately before adding it to the pasta, ensuring it doesn’t overcook during the boiling process.

Consider choosing fresh broccoli that is firm and tightly packed, avoiding any that is yellowing or wilting, as this affects the dish's presentation and flavor. You can also substitute broccoli with other vegetables like asparagus or green beans if desired; just adjust the cooking time accordingly to maintain a balance of texture in the dish.

Cooking the Chicken

The chicken breast is the centerpiece of this dish, and achieving perfect tenderness is essential. To ensure uniform cooking, dice the chicken into similar-sized pieces, about 1-inch cubes. This allows for even browning in the skillet. I recommend using a non-stick or cast-iron skillet to achieve a nice golden crust without sticking, which also enhances flavor through caramelization.

If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken. Just add it to the skillet with the garlic after sautéing the onions for only a couple of minutes until heated through. This variation saves time without sacrificing the delicious flavor.

Serving and Storage Tips

To enjoy the best flavor and texture, serve the pasta dish immediately after preparing it. The melted Parmesan cheese adds a creamy richness, and fresh herbs like basil or parsley can be sprinkled on top for added freshness. If you want to serve it later, allow the dish to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. It can last in the refrigerator for up to three days.

For reheating, add a splash of water or broth to keep the pasta from drying out, and gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, stirring frequently. You can also freeze the pasta for up to two months. Just be aware that the broccoli may lose some of its crispness upon reheating, but the flavors will still meld beautifully.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your dish full of flavor:

Ingredients

8 oz bow tie pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure everything is prepped and ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious pasta dish:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and sauté for 1 minute. Then, add the drained pasta and broccoli. Toss everything together and cook for another 2 minutes.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy your meal!

Dig into your delicious creation!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes or fresh herbs like basil or parsley at the end.

Cooking Variations

While this recipe shines with chicken and broccoli, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Adding sun-dried tomatoes or olives can give an Italian twist, while a splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors. For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for chickpeas or white beans, ensuring to season them well with herbs and spices for depth.

Experimenting with different types of pasta can also yield interesting textures and flavors. Try using whole wheat or gluten-free bow tie pasta as a nutritious alternative. Just be mindful of the cooking times as they may vary from regular pasta.

Troubleshooting Tips

Should your chicken end up dry, it can be due to overcooking; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and keep an eye on it after the first few minutes. Also, if the final dish seems too dry, a bit more olive oil can help. Don't hesitate to drizzle some over before serving; it adds flavor and moisture.

If you notice the pasta sticking together post-cooking, ensure you are inspired to use plenty of water during boiling and stir occasionally. If stuck, adding a bit of olive oil while tossing can help separate the strands without compromising taste.

Meal Prep Ideas

This Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli can easily fit into your meal prep regime. You might consider cooking a double batch during the weekend, portioning it out into individual containers for the week ahead. This helps save time while ensuring you have a nutritious meal ready on busy nights.

To maintain flavor and texture, store the chicken and pasta mixture separately from the broccoli if you plan on reheating it later. Assemble everything fresh just before eating for the best results, retaining the broccoli’s vibrant color and crispness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to cook it until heated through.

→ What type of pasta can I use besides bow tie?

You can substitute any pasta shape you prefer, such as fusilli or penne.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can make it ahead of time and reheat it. Add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep it moist.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with chickpeas or tofu for a protein boost.