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: 4.0
Ingredients: 8 oz bow tie pasta; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese; Juice of 1 lemon

Highlighted under: Vital Meals

I love making Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli because it combines simplicity with delicious flavor, making it a go-to weeknight meal. The tender chicken paired with vibrant broccoli and the unique shape of the bow tie pasta create a visually appealing dish that everyone loves. With a few basic ingredients and easy steps, I can whip this up in no time. It’s the perfect comfort food that not only looks great on the plate but also fills you up without feeling heavy. Let's dive into this delightful recipe!

Created by

Hallie Foster

Last updated on 2026-02-24T01:48:47.906Z

When I first tried making Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli, I was amazed at how quickly it came together without sacrificing flavor. The key lies in cooking the pasta and chicken at the same time, so everything blends perfectly. I add a splash of lemon juice just before serving, which brightens the flavors beautifully.

I've experimented with different vegetables, but broccoli remains my favorite for its crunch and vibrant color. Cooking it until just tender keeps that lovely green hue, making the dish not just tasty, but also visually inviting!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A quick meal ready in under 40 minutes
Nutritious broccoli adds color and crunch
Heart-healthy chicken for protein
Delicious blend of flavors that pleases everyone

Mastering the Bow Tie Pasta

Bow tie pasta, also known as farfalle, is a fun shape that holds onto sauces beautifully. When cooking it, ensure the water is at a rolling boil before adding the pasta; this helps prevent sticking. Stir the pasta occasionally while cooking to ensure even cooking. Al dente is the goal here, so taste it a minute or two before the package time is up. This texture will complement the chicken and broccoli perfectly, ensuring each bite is satisfying.

When draining the pasta, remember to reserve a cup of the starchy cooking water. This water will become your secret weapon in tying the dish together, creating a light sauce that clings to the ingredients. It helps to adjust the consistency and enhances the flavor of the finished dish. If you end up adding too much, don’t worry—simply cook it a bit longer in the skillet to evaporate the excess moisture.

Choosing the Right Chicken

For this recipe, boneless and skinless chicken breasts work best, providing a lean source of protein that cooks quickly and evenly. When dicing the chicken, aim for uniform pieces about 1-inch in size to ensure they cook through at the same rate. If you're pressed for time, precooked rotisserie chicken can be a great shortcut. Simply add it in at the step where you combine with the pasta and broccoli to warm it through.

If you're looking for a bit more flavor in your chicken, marinate it for 30 minutes in lemon juice and olive oil before cooking. This not only tenderizes the meat but also infuses it with an extra layer of richness. Alternatively, chicken thighs could be used for a juicier end result—just adjust the cooking time slightly, as they require a few minutes longer to ensure they're thoroughly cooked.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delightful bowl of Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli.

Ingredients

8 oz bow tie pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Juice of 1 lemon

Ensure you have everything prepped and ready for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare this delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli.

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. About 8-10 minutes should do it. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.

Sauté Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken, garlic, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Add Broccoli

Stir in the broccoli florets and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes or until the broccoli is bright green and tender but still crisp.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked bow tie pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time until everything is nicely combined and saucy.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, drizzle lemon juice, and serve warm, garnished with extra cheese if desired.

Enjoy your meal with family or friends, and savor every bite!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try marinating the chicken in lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking. You can also substitute the chicken with shrimp or tofu for a different twist.

Ingredient Variations

While broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients, you can easily swap it out for other vegetables. Asparagus, snap peas, or even spinach can work beautifully in this pasta dish. Just keep in mind the cooking times; for example, asparagus may need a little longer, while spinach wilts much faster than broccoli, requiring just a minute or two when added to the skillet.

If you're looking to make this dish vegetarian or vegan, switch the chicken for some hearty mushrooms or chickpeas. Both options provide a good texture and protein balance. Additionally, use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan cheese for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This dish can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Before storing, allow it to cool completely. Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss. When you're ready to reheat, add a splash of reserved pasta water to help revive the dish and prevent it from drying out. Simply microwave in intervals or reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, covering it to retain moisture.

If you're considering freezing it, do so before adding the Parmesan cheese and lemon juice. Freeze in meal-sized portions, and it will keep well for up to two months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat it, adding freshly grated Parmesan and a squeeze of lemon just before serving to brighten the flavors again.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, you can use frozen broccoli. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the dish.

→ What can I use instead of bow tie pasta?

You can substitute with any pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle if preferred.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can easily make this vegetarian by omitting the chicken and adding additional vegetables or protein like chickpeas.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and broccoli and store them separately. Combine with pasta when ready to serve for the best texture.