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 servings
Ingredients: 8 oz bow tie pasta; 1 pound chicken breast, diced; 2 cups broccoli florets; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 lemon, juiced; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Homestyle Dishes

I love making Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli because it perfectly balances flavors and textures with every bite. This dish has become a go-to in my kitchen for busy weeknights, and I enjoy how quickly it all comes together. The tender bow tie pasta combined with sautéed chicken and vibrant broccoli not only looks appealing but also brings comfort and satisfaction. With just a few ingredients, I can whip up a wholesome meal that everyone in my family enjoys, making it a wonderful addition to my cooking repertoire.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-28T10:13:34.676Z

When I first decided to make Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken and Broccoli, I knew it had to be packed with flavor and nutrition. I experimented with cooking the chicken in lemon juice, which not only tenderized the meat but also added a delightful zing that complements the dish beautifully. The trick was to not overcook the broccoli; I blanched it just until vibrant green and then transferred it straight to the pasta to maintain that fresh crunch.

One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how versatile it can be. Sometimes I’ll swap the chicken for shrimp or even add a sprinkle of parmesan for a richer taste. This dish allows for creativity while ensuring that the flavors of garlic and lemon shine through, making it a culinary favorite in our home.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Colorful and nutritious dish that's a feast for the eyes
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy nights
Versatile; can be adapted with different proteins or vegetables

Mastering the Bow Tie Pasta

Cooking the bow tie pasta to the perfect al dente consistency is key for texture in this dish. Start by bringing large pots of salted water to a rolling boil—this not only enhances flavor but also helps to prevent sticking. Be sure to stir occasionally while cooking. When you drain the pasta, reserving a bit of the pasta water can be a great trick, as it offers additional starch that can help bind the sauce if needed.

To ensure the broccoli retains its vibrant color and crunch, add it to the pasta pot in the last three minutes of cooking. This simple technique blanches the broccoli while maintaining its green hue and nutritional benefits. After draining, give the pasta and broccoli a light toss in the pot to avoid sticking before adding them to the skillet.

Perfecting the Chicken Sauté

When sautéing the chicken, it’s important to give each piece enough space in the skillet. If the skillet is overcrowded, the chicken will steam instead of sauté, resulting in a less appealing texture. Cook the chicken over medium heat for around 7-9 minutes, until it is golden brown on the outside and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Using a meat thermometer can help prevent undercooking.

Adding minced garlic to the skillet right after the chicken browns is a fantastic way to infuse deep flavor. You’ll want to stir the garlic quickly, just for 30 seconds or until fragrant, to prevent it from burning which can introduce bitterness to the dish.

Ingredients

Bow Tie Pasta Dish

8 oz bow tie pasta
1 pound chicken breast, diced
2 cups broccoli florets
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

Instructions

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. In the last 3 minutes of cooking, add the broccoli florets to the pot. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 7-9 minutes. Add the minced garlic and lemon juice, stirring until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the drained pasta and broccoli to the skillet with the chicken. Toss gently to combine and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Transfer to serving plates and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your meal!

Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, consider adding red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. If you have leftover roasted vegetables, they can be a great addition to this dish.

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, this dish can be easily stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld together, making for a tasty next-day lunch. For reheating, use a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to help moisten the pasta and revitalize its texture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be easily frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it slowly on the stovetop to restore its fresh taste.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to adapt this dish based on what you have available. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, swapping the chicken for chickpeas or sautéed mushrooms can yield a robust flavor while maintaining protein content. You can also mix in other vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, to introduce new textures and colors.

For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of crème fraîche after combining the pasta and chicken. This method creates a luscious coating over the ingredients and elevates the dish’s comfort factor, perfect for cozy dinners.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use whole wheat pasta instead?

Yes, whole wheat pasta works well and adds extra fiber.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for variety.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze it, although the texture of the broccoli may change slightly upon reheating.

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Absolutely! Shrimp, turkey, or even tofu are great alternatives.