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; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Zest of 1 lemon; Parmesan cheese for serving

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I absolutely love preparing Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli, as it's a recipe that beautifully combines flavors and textures. Each bite offers a delightful mix of tender chicken, crisp broccoli, and the unique shape of bow tie pasta that holds sauces wonderfully. It's an easy dish to whip up on a busy weeknight, yet it feels indulgent enough to serve for a family gathering. I often find that adding a squeeze of lemon elevates this dish even further, making it a fresh and satisfying meal.

Created by

Lottie Pennington

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:57:35.359Z

When I first tried making Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli, I was amazed at how well the ingredients came together. The pasta was so light and fluffy, while the chicken was juicy and tender, thanks to a quick sauté. I decided to steam the broccoli separately to maintain its bright color and crisp texture, which added an appealing contrast to the dish.

Another tip I discovered is that tossing the pasta in the sauce off the heat really allows the flavors to meld without overcooking the ingredients. It’s a simple technique, but it ensures everything is perfectly coated without becoming mushy, making the dish truly enjoyable to savor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Delicious balance of protein and vegetables
Quick and easy to prepare for busy nights
Lemon zest adds a refreshing twist
Customizable with your favorite vegetables

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Cooking the bow tie pasta to perfection is crucial for this dish. For the best texture, ensure you boil it in salted water, which enhances the flavor. I recommend checking for al dente status a minute before the package's recommended cooking time, typically around 9-11 minutes. This prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce later.

When sautéing the chicken, make sure your skillet is adequately heated before adding the oil and chicken. A medium-high heat allows for a nice sear, which locks in the juices and creates a slightly crisp texture on the outside. If your chicken is struggling to brown, give it a little more time and avoid stirring it too often.

Ingredient Insights and Substitutions

Using fresh broccoli florets not only enhances the dish with their vibrant color and texture but also offers a boost of nutrients. If fresh isn't available, frozen broccoli can work in a pinch; just ensure you thaw and drain it well to avoid excess moisture in the dish. You might also consider adding some cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and acidity.

The combination of chicken broth and heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or even a non-dairy cream alternative like coconut cream. Additionally, if you're looking to reduce calories, consider using chicken thighs, which provide more flavor and moisture without the need for as much added fat.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli.

Ingredients

8 oz bow tie pasta
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
2 cups broccoli florets
3 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Zest of 1 lemon
Parmesan cheese for serving

Once you have gathered all the ingredients, you’re ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a hearty and fulfilling meal.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add the bow tie pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually around 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once hot, add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.

Add Broccoli and Garlic

Add the broccoli florets and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the broccoli is bright green and tender.

Create the Sauce

Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.

Mix Everything Together

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss until evenly coated with the sauce. Stir in lemon zest, and adjust seasoning as necessary.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli!

Pro Tips

Feel free to replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different protein option. You can also add other vegetables such as bell peppers or spinach for more color and flavor.

Make-Ahead Tips

This Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli can be a great candidate for meal prep. You can cook the chicken and broccoli a day ahead, storing them in the refrigerator. Just reheat them briefly in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth before adding to freshly cooked pasta later, which ensures the chicken remains juicy.

If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, consider slightly undercooking the pasta. This prevents it from becoming soggy when reheating. Store everything in separate containers, and when ready to enjoy, combine the pasta with the reheated chicken and broccoli, adding the sauce and lemon zest just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

To serve Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli, I love garnishing it with freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which adds a nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil right before serving can also brighten up the dish visually and add a fresh herbal note.

Pair this pasta dish with a light side salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cream sauce. Additionally, for those looking for a bit more crunch, consider serving some toasted garlic bread on the side, which can be a great way to scoop up any leftover sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli for this recipe?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well; just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the skillet.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if you want a lighter version.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include bell peppers, peas, or spinach for added nutrition and variety.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.