Bow Tie Pasta With Chicken And Broccoli

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Chicken And Broccoli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz bow tie pasta; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon lemon zest; Grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Fast Cooking

I absolutely love making Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli for a quick, nourishing dinner. It combines tender pasta, perfectly sautéed chicken, and vibrant broccoli for a dish that’s both satisfying and visually appealing. With just a few ingredients and around 30 minutes, you can whip up a meal that the whole family will enjoy. Plus, I often add a dash of lemon zest for an extra burst of freshness that really elevates the dish and keeps everyone coming back for more.

Created by

Nerissa Caldwell

Last updated on 2026-02-27T18:13:35.608Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how simple it was yet so rich in flavor. The combination of buttery chicken, crunchy broccoli, and the heartiness of bow tie pasta provides a well-rounded meal that feels indulgent without being heavy. One crucial tip I've learned is to slightly undercook the broccoli so it retains its vibrant color and crispness, adding texture to every bite.

Another time, I experimented by adding garlic and crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, and I was blown away by the depth of flavor it brought to the dish. This recipe is truly versatile; you can swap in any vegetables you like or even add a sprinkle of parmesan for an extra cheesy delight!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Comforting and warm, perfect for family gatherings
Simple ingredients that come together effortlessly
Great for meal prep or a weeknight dinner
Versatile for customizing with your favorite veggies

Essential Techniques for Perfect Pasta

Cooking the bow tie pasta to al dente not only enhances its texture but also ensures it holds up well when combined with the chicken and broccoli. It’s crucial to add enough salt to the boiling water; it should taste like the sea to properly season the pasta. After draining, be sure to toss the pasta with a little olive oil to prevent sticking and maintain a glossy finish until you're ready to combine it with the other ingredients.

When sautéing the chicken, a preheated skillet is key to achieving that desirable golden-brown crust. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear. If necessary, cook the chicken in batches. Keep an eye on the heat; you want a medium-high setting to ensure a good sear while preventing burning. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has golden edges.

Ingredient Roles and Substitutions

The vibrancy of the broccoli not only adds color but also nutritional benefits, offering fiber and vitamins that make this dish well-rounded. For a different twist, consider using asparagus or green beans, which pair wonderfully with the chicken and pasta. Should you prefer a lighter option, substituting the chicken with cubed tofu or chickpeas can create a vegetarian delight without sacrificing protein content.

Olive oil plays a dual role in this recipe: it adds flavor and acts as the cooking medium. If you're looking for a different flavor profile, avocado oil or a high-quality butter can enhance the dish. The addition of lemon zest is crucial; it brightens the overall flavor and cuts through the richness of the dish. If lemon isn’t on hand, a splash of white wine vinegar can also add brightness.

Ingredients

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

Ingredients

8 oz bow tie pasta
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cubed
2 cups broccoli florets
3 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon lemon zest
Grated parmesan cheese (optional)

Ensure everything is ready before you start cooking for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli:

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed chicken, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Add the Broccoli

Add the broccoli florets and minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken. Sauté for another 5 minutes, or until the broccoli is bright green and slightly tender.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked bow tie pasta into the skillet with the chicken and broccoli. Drizzle with the remaining olive oil and lemon zest, mixing everything well. Serve hot with grated parmesan cheese on top if desired.

Enjoy your homemade Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of chicken broth while sautéing the chicken. You can also experiment with adding other vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to enhance the dish even further.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli is an excellent meal prep option. You can cook the chicken and broccoli in advance and store them separately in the fridge for up to three days. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat everything on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain moisture. Cooking the pasta fresh each time helps retain its texture, so I recommend making it right before serving for optimal results.

If you want to stretch this recipe, consider doubling the ingredients. The dish holds its flavor well when scaled up, and the leftovers make for a delicious lunch the next day. Just be sure to store the components separately: pasta, chicken, and broccoli can be combined right before eating to keep the pasta from absorbing too much liquid.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For a complete meal, consider serving this dish alongside a simple green salad or garlic bread. The freshness of a salad can balance out the savory flavors of the pasta, while garlic bread can soak up any extra sauce you might have. If you're feeling adventurous, add a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat or toss in some sun-dried tomatoes for a punch of flavor.

Feel free to customize this recipe based on seasonal produce. In the fall, adding roasted butternut squash can infuse a sweet nuttiness, while in the summer, fresh cherry tomatoes might add a delightful burst. Moreover, if you want a creamier sauce, a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of ricotta can enhance the richness of the dish without overpowering its original charm.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! Feel free to substitute bow tie pasta with any pasta shape you prefer.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients, cook the chicken and pasta, and combine everything before serving for a quick reheating.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

It can be frozen, but the broccoli may become mushy. Consider adding it fresh after reheating.

→ How can I make this a vegetarian dish?

Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables, and consider using vegetable broth instead for flavor.