Imagine biting into tender, juicy chicken perfectly seasoned and grilled to a golden crisp, paired with cheesy bowtie pasta coated in a rich, garlicky parmesan cream sauce. This is comfort food at its finest—the kind of dish that wraps you in a warm hug after a long day. It’s creamy, savory, and utterly satisfying with every forkful.

Whether you’re hosting a cozy family dinner or craving a flavorful weeknight indulgence, this dish delivers bold flavor with simple ingredients. The creamy pasta base is luxurious without being heavy, and the grilled garlic parmesan chicken adds a delightful contrast in texture and taste. It’s an instant favorite for both pasta lovers and chicken fans alike.

What Kind of Pasta Should I Use?

Bowtie pasta, also known as farfalle, is the ideal choice for this recipe. Its unique shape holds onto the creamy garlic parmesan sauce, giving you that perfect bite every time. While you could substitute with penne or rotini, bowtie really gives the dish a charming presentation and ensures each forkful carries a generous coating of sauce.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Chicken Breasts: These are the protein star of the plate. You’ll want boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced thin for quicker cooking and more surface area for seasoning.

Garlic Powder and Paprika: The foundation of our chicken’s bold flavor. These spices add warmth and depth with a smoky, savory touch.

Parmesan Cheese: A must for both the chicken crust and the creamy sauce. Parmesan gives that nutty, umami-rich sharpness that defines this dish.

Heavy Cream: This is the base of the creamy pasta sauce. It makes the bowties indulgent and velvety.

Cream Cheese: Helps to thicken the sauce while adding a tangy richness. It also makes the sauce cling perfectly to the pasta.

Spinach (chopped): For a pop of color and nutrition, spinach melts into the sauce without overpowering the flavor.

Bowtie Pasta: The perfect shape to hold sauce in every fold. It keeps the dish playful and texturally interesting.

Olive Oil: Used to cook the chicken and to give it a beautiful golden sear.

Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce to perfection.

Fresh Parsley: For garnish. It brightens the dish with a fresh herbal note.

How To Make the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by seasoning the sliced chicken breasts with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked with a golden brown crust. Set aside and keep warm.

Step 2: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

While the chicken is cooking, boil a pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken (for maximum flavor), lower the heat to medium. Add heavy cream and cream cheese, stirring until the cream cheese has melted into the sauce. Sprinkle in grated parmesan cheese and stir until smooth.

Step 4: Add Spinach and Combine

Stir chopped spinach into the sauce and let it wilt. Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing gently to coat every piece in the creamy, cheesy goodness.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Plate the pasta on a large serving dish and top it with the warm garlic parmesan chicken. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and an optional sprinkle of extra parmesan. Serve hot and enjoy!

How to Serve and Store This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Serve this dish fresh and hot right after assembling to capture the creamy texture and golden seared chicken. It makes a stunning centerpiece for dinner parties or a cozy Sunday meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or extra parmesan for an elegant touch.

To store leftovers, place the chicken and pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to life. For best texture, store the chicken separately from the pasta.

What to Serve With Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Garlic Bread

The crispy, buttery crunch of garlic bread complements the creamy pasta beautifully. Perfect for scooping up every last drop of sauce.

Caesar Salad

Crisp romaine lettuce with a tangy Caesar dressing and crunchy croutons provides balance and freshness.

Roasted Broccoli

Adds a nutritious and slightly charred depth that works well with the cheesy pasta.

Balsamic Glazed Brussels Sprouts

A touch of sweet acidity from balsamic cuts through the richness of the cream sauce.

Caprese Skewers

Light and colorful, these offer a refreshing bite between creamy forkfuls.

Lemon Asparagus

Bright, zesty, and just the right amount of bitterness to enhance the dish.

Iced Tea or Sparkling Lemonade

Pair your meal with a crisp drink to cleanse your palate and refresh your senses.

A Glass of Chardonnay

If you enjoy wine, a lightly oaked Chardonnay brings out the nuttiness of the parmesan.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If you’re all about creamy, comforting pasta dishes with juicy chicken, here are a few more you’ll want to bookmark next:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add mushrooms? A splash of white wine? Or maybe some red pepper flakes for heat?

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