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 chicken breast, diced; 3 cups broccoli florets; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup chicken broth; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Food

I love making Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli because it's a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family adores. The tender chicken and vibrant broccoli combine beautifully with the perfectly cooked pasta, creating a dish that is both nutritious and comforting. I often whip this up on busy weeknights, and it never fails to leave everyone asking for seconds. Plus, with a sprinkle of Parmesan on top, it elevates this dish to family favorite status!

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-02-24T02:02:36.835Z

During one of those hectic evenings, I needed something quick, delicious, and nutritious. This Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli came to my rescue! With just a few ingredients, I crafted a delightful dish that had my family raving about how tasty it was. I love how the bow tie pasta holds onto the sauce, ensuring a burst of flavor in every bite.

The secret to making this meal truly special is in the cooking method. I first sauté the chicken until it's golden brown to lock in moisture and flavor. Then, I add in the broccoli just in time so it stays vibrant and crunchy, giving the dish a perfect balance of textures. It’s a recipe everyone should have in their collection!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to make in one pot
Packed with protein and veggies for a balanced meal
Kids love the fun shape of bow tie pasta

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of chicken, broccoli, and bow tie pasta in this recipe provides a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. Chicken breast is a lean source of protein that cooks quickly, ensuring you maintain that tender bite. While using fresh broccoli adds a vibrant crunch, frozen broccoli florets can be a convenient alternative. Just keep in mind that frozen might require a slightly shorter cooking time, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

The addition of garlic not only enhances the savory depth but also brings a fragrant aroma to the dish. For a twist, you might consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the olive oil while sautéing the garlic for a touch of heat. This small change can elevate the overall flavor profile without overwhelming the existing ingredients.

Technique Tips for Perfect Pasta

Cooking pasta can be tricky, but a few key tips can take your dish from good to great. Always ensure your water is at a rolling boil before adding the bow tie pasta; this helps to keep the pasta from becoming sticky. Stir the pasta gently for the first minute to prevent clumping. Taste a piece a minute or two before the package time is up to achieve that perfect al dente texture — it should be firm but not hard.

Another technique to master is the art of combining the ingredients. Once you add the chicken broth, make sure to scrape the bottom of the skillet to incorporate any browned bits from the chicken. This technique not only adds flavor but also gives your dish a beautiful glossy finish. If you find the sauce too thin, let it simmer a few extra minutes to thicken, or consider adding another slight sprinkle of Parmesan to naturally enrich the sauce.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli:

Ingredients

8 oz bow tie pasta
1 lb chicken breast, diced
3 cups broccoli florets
2 tbsp olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your meal:

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.

Add Broccoli and Garlic

Stir in the garlic and broccoli. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the broccoli is tender but still vibrant.

Combine Ingredients

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add the cooked pasta and Parmesan cheese, stirring until well combined and heated through.

Enjoy your meal while it’s hot!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can substitute the chicken broth with a splash of white wine while sautéing the chicken. This will impart a lovely depth to the dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This recipe is fantastic for meal prep. You can cook the chicken and broccoli in advance and store them separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the chicken and broccoli in a skillet, and then add the cooked pasta along with the broth. This way, you maintain the textures without overcooking any of the components.

If you want to freeze Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli, you can do so after cooking. Allow it to cool completely and transfer it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Serving Suggestions

For an extra touch of flavor, consider serving your Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli alongside a fresh garden salad or garlic bread. The acidity and crunch from a salad complement the richness of the pasta, while garlic bread adds heartiness to the meal. You can sprinkle some extra grated Parmesan or fresh herbs, like parsley or basil, on top before serving for a pop of color and freshness.

If you're looking to change things up, this dish can easily accommodate variations. Swap the bow tie pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options. You could also substitute chicken for shrimp or grilled tofu for a different protein or make it vegetarian by adding more vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. The key is to maintain a balance of flavors and textures while personalizing the dish to your liking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well! Just add it to the skillet right from the freezer and adjust cooking time accordingly.

→ Is there a gluten-free option for the pasta?

Absolutely! You can use gluten-free bow tie pasta, and the recipe will still turn out delicious.

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Definitely! This pasta can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to experiment with vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color.