Bow Tie Pasta With Chicken And Broccoli

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Chicken And Broccoli
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/4 cup chicken broth; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple & Tasty

I’ve always loved the combination of pasta and vegetables, but this Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli takes it to a whole new level. The tender bow tie pasta paired with juicy chicken and flavorful broccoli creates a delightful dish that pleases everyone at the table. Each bite is a perfect marriage of textures and tastes. What I appreciate the most about this recipe is how quickly you can prepare it, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option without sacrificing flavor.

Created by

Katherine Blake

Last updated on 2026-02-27T21:49:34.694Z

When I first made this dish, I was pleasantly surprised by how seamlessly the flavors worked together. The garlic and olive oil combined with the chicken created a deep, savory foundation that complemented the fresh broccoli perfectly. I learned that blanching the broccoli for just a couple of minutes before adding it to the pasta helps preserve its vibrant color and nutrients, making the dish not only beautiful but healthier too.

After trying various sauces for this combination, I found that a light one made with chicken broth and a splash of lemon juice captures the essence of the ingredients without overwhelming them. This has become my go-to recipe, especially when I have guests over, as it looks fancy but is effortless to prepare.

Reasons to Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of protein, carbs, and veggies in every bite.
Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
A crowd-pleaser that can easily be customized with your favorite veggies.

Maximizing Flavor and Texture

Cooking the bow tie pasta to the perfect al dente texture is crucial for this dish. Aim for just a slight bite in the center; this allows the pasta to hold its shape and texture once mixed with the other ingredients. This technique not only enhances the mouthfeel but also prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when combined with the sautéed chicken and broccoli later on.

The addition of garlic is a key flavor component. When sautéing, keep an eye on the garlic to ensure it becomes fragrant without burning; this usually takes about 1 minute. Burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste that may compromise the dish’s overall flavor profile. Adjusting the heat as needed can help achieve that perfect golden hue.

Smart Ingredient Swaps

While this recipe calls for chicken breasts, feel free to substitute lean turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. These alternatives provide a great source of protein without losing the essence of the dish. If using chickpeas, add them to the skillet with the garlic to integrate their flavor, allowing them to sauté slightly, enhancing their texture.

For the broccoli, asparagus, spinach, or even bell peppers make excellent stand-ins. If you're using quicker-cooking vegetables like spinach, stir them in during the final stages of cooking to maintain their vibrant color and nutrients. This flexibility allows you to utilize whatever you have on hand, ensuring minimal food waste.

Storage and Reheating Tips

This Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli is a great make-ahead meal. After cooking, let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to freeze it, portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to two months. Just ensure that you label them with the date for easy tracking.

When reheating, try adding a splash of chicken broth or a drizzle of olive oil to keep the pasta from drying out. Heat gently over medium-low until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Avoid the microwave if possible, as it can lead to uneven heating and a gummy texture. Instead, the skillet method usually yields the best results, retaining the dish's integrity.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli

12 oz bow tie pasta
2 cups broccoli florets
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup olive oil
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 cup chicken broth
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Feel free to experiment with additional vegetables like bell peppers or carrots!

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the bow tie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Add the broccoli florets during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine and Serve

Pour in the chicken broth and lemon juice, stirring to combine. Add the cooked pasta and broccoli to the skillet, tossing everything together until well coated. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.

This dish can be served immediately or stored in the fridge for up to 3 days!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in lemon juice and herbs for 30 minutes before cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Consider enhancing the flavor with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like basil or parsley just before serving. This not only adds a pop of color but also brightens the dish with fresh notes. A squeeze of lemon juice over the top can further elevate the flavors, making it even more refreshing, especially during warmer months.

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. The lightness of the salad complements the richness of the pasta, while garlic bread can soak up any leftover sauce, ensuring none of the flavors go to waste.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're planning to serve a larger crowd, this recipe can easily be doubled while maintaining its delicious flavor. Just ensure you have a sufficiently large pot and skillet to accommodate the increased volume. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly; always taste-test for doneness.

When scaling, it's particularly important to adjust the seasoning and liquid content accordingly. Gradually add chicken broth and seasoning, tasting as you go, to ensure that the flavors remain balanced. It's better to start with less and add more until you reach your desired flavor profile.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the pasta dish in an airtight container. Thaw and reheat on the stove or microwave.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the chicken and add more veggies or a meat alternative.

→ How can I make it spicier?

You can add red pepper flakes to the chicken while it cooks for an extra kick.