Imagine a dish that combines the rich, aromatic flavors of perfectly seasoned chicken with tender bow tie pasta, all kissed by the irresistible warmth of garlic. This isn't just another pasta recipe - it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy meal you can easily create in your own kitchen. Whether you're looking to impress your family or craving a quick yet delicious dinner, this Garlic Chicken with Bow Tie Pasta will become your new go-to comfort food that promises maximum flavor with minimal effort.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 8 oz bow tie pasta
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Fill a large pot with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Add bow tie pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Drain pasta and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water.
- Pat chicken breast pieces dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning. Season chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once oil is shimmering, add diced chicken pieces in a single layer.
- Cook chicken for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for 30-45 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Return cooked chicken to the skillet. Add cooked bow tie pasta and toss to combine, using reserved pasta water if mixture seems dry.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the pasta and chicken, stirring to distribute evenly and create a light sauce.
- Transfer to serving plates, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot.
Tips
- Pat the chicken dry before cooking to ensure a beautiful golden-brown crust that locks in flavor.
- Use fresh garlic for the most intense flavor - pre-minced garlic from a jar won't deliver the same punch.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking chicken; this ensures even browning and prevents steaming.
- Reserve some pasta water before draining - its starchy goodness helps create a silky sauce.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- For extra richness, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or white wine when creating the sauce.
- Fresh parsley isn't just a garnish - it adds a bright, fresh flavor that elevates the entire dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 85mg
