Save A vibrant, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, bowtie pasta, and a creamy basil pesto sauce—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
The first time I made this dish, my family could not stop raving about the bright flavors and the creamy, comforting texture. It quickly became a favorite in our regular dinner rotation thanks to how easy it is to put together.
Ingredients
- Bowtie (farfalle) pasta: 340 g (12 oz)
- Chicken breasts: 2 boneless, skinless (about 400 g), cut into bite-sized pieces
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Basil pesto: 120 g (1/2 cup), store-bought or homemade
- Heavy cream: 120 ml (1/2 cup)
- Parmesan cheese: 2 tbsp grated
- Cherry tomatoes (optional): 120 g (1 cup), halved
- Baby spinach (optional): 60 g (2 cups)
- Toasted pine nuts (optional): 2 tbsp, for garnish
- Extra Parmesan cheese: for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves: for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 60 ml (1/4 cup) of pasta water.
- Cook the chicken:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce:
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add pesto and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine chicken and pasta:
- Return chicken to the skillet. Add cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add vegetables (optional):
- If using, add cherry tomatoes and baby spinach. Cook for 2–3 minutes until spinach is wilted and tomatoes are just softened.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with toasted pine nuts, extra Parmesan, and fresh basil.
Save This is one of those meals my kids ask for by name whenever they spot bowtie pasta in the pantry. It is also my go-to when we want something special but quick after a busy day.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, colander, chefs knife, cutting board, and a wooden spoon are all you need to prepare this dish.
Allergen Information
This meal contains milk/dairy from Parmesan, cream, and pesto; pine nuts from pesto or as garnish; gluten from pasta. Some pestos may contain other allergens such as cashews. Always double-check ingredient labels before serving.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 580 calories, 25 g total fat, 57 g carbohydrates, and 34 g protein.
Save You will love how quickly this pasta comes together for delicious, comforting dinners any night of the week. Try it with your favorite pasta shape and fresh vegetables for endless variations.
Recipe Q&A
- → Can I use a different pasta type?
Yes, penne or fusilli make excellent substitutes if bowtie pasta is unavailable or preferred.
- → Is it possible to prepare a lighter version?
Replacing heavy cream with half-and-half reduces richness while maintaining creamy texture.
- → How should the chicken be cooked for best results?
Cook chicken pieces in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Cherry tomatoes and baby spinach can be added towards the end of cooking for freshness and color.
- → What garnishes enhance this dish?
Toasted pine nuts, extra grated Parmesan, and fresh basil leaves add texture and flavor depth.
- → Are there common allergens in this dish?
Contains dairy, pine nuts, and gluten. Check pesto ingredients for potential tree nut allergens.