Warm, comforting, and ready in about 35 minutes, this One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken and Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is the kind of weeknight dinner that becomes a family favorite. Tender bite-sized pieces of chicken seared until golden mingle with fragrant garlic and a rich, milky sauce that coats every bowtie. The pasta cooks right in the same skillet, soaking up savory chicken broth and then finishing with gooey mozzarella and nutty Parmesan for a silky, indulgent texture. The aroma of garlic and melted cheese fills the kitchen, and the dish balances creamy richness with a subtle herb note from Italian seasoning. This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, casual dinner parties, or any evening you want a satisfying one-pan meal with minimal cleanup. For another creamy bowtie take, see this creamy garlic beef bowtie pasta that uses similar comforting flavors.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter — for searing the chicken and starting the sauce; use butter for a richer flavor or olive oil for a lighter profile.
  Related creamy bowtie recipe
• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces — use even pieces so they cook quickly and evenly.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning — a classic herb blend that adds depth without extra effort.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt — adjust to taste, especially if using low sodium broth.
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper — freshly ground for best aroma.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced — gives the dish its fragrant, savory backbone; do not skip.
• 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium) — the simmering liquid that cooks the pasta and adds savory flavor.
• 3 cups uncooked bowtie pasta (farfalle) — cooks in the skillet and soaks up the sauce.
• 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half — provides creaminess and helps make the sauce velvety.
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional) — for an extra-luxurious, silky sauce if you want it richer.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese — melts into a gooey, stretchy finish.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese — adds sharp, nutty flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) — brightens the dish and adds a fresh finish.
  See a similar creamy chicken pasta

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken for a nice golden sear.
2. Season 1 lb bite-sized chicken pieces with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
3. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until golden on the outside and mostly cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan so the chicken browns instead of steaming.
4. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside on a plate while you finish the sauce.
5. In the same pan, add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant, stirring constantly so it does not burn.
6. Pour in 4 cups chicken broth and bring to a boil, using a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for extra flavor.
7. Stir in 3 cups uncooked bowtie pasta, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until the pasta is al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and check the pasta toward the end of cooking.
8. Stir in 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half and 1/2 cup heavy cream if using, then add the chicken back to the pan. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to heat everything through and allow the sauce to thicken slightly.
9. Add 1 cup shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, stirring until the cheeses melt into a creamy sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
10. Garnish with 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley and serve hot directly from the skillet for minimal cleanup.
    Tip: If the sauce becomes too thick, stir in a splash of milk or a little extra broth to reach your preferred consistency.

Try a baked variation that uses similar flavors

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Calories: Approximately 535 kcal per serving

Tips, Storage & Variations

• Tip: Cut the chicken into uniform pieces so they cook evenly and stay juicy.
• Tip: Use whole milk or half-and-half for a creamier sauce; the optional heavy cream makes it richer if you prefer indulgence.
• Tip: Keep an eye on the pasta during simmering and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
• Freezing: You can freeze portions, but cream sauces can separate when frozen. For best results, freeze before adding the cheeses, then thaw overnight and stir in mozzarella and Parmesan while reheating. Add a little milk to revive the sauce.
• Flavor variations using only ingredients in this recipe:
  • Make it extra creamy by always including the 1/2 cup heavy cream.
  • For a cheesier finish, increase the mozzarella slightly while keeping the Parmesan the same.
  • Use butter instead of olive oil for a richer sear on the chicken.
    For another cheesy bowtie option, check this cheesy beef bowtie pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen chicken?
   Yes, but thaw it completely before cutting into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly and browns properly.

2. Do I have to use heavy cream?
   No, heavy cream is optional. The recipe is creamy with just milk or half-and-half. Use cream for a richer texture.

3. Can I use a different pasta shape?
   Yes, other short pastas work, but cooking time may vary slightly. Adjust simmering time as needed.

4. Is low sodium chicken broth necessary?
   Low sodium is recommended so you can control the salt level, but regular broth can be used if you reduce added salt.

5. How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
   Stir the pasta occasionally during simmering and ensure there is enough liquid covering it. If it looks dry, add a little more broth.

People Also Ask

• How long does the pasta cook when simmered in broth?
  Typically 12 to 15 minutes for al dente bowtie pasta when simmered covered in broth.

• Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
  This version calls for milk and cheese, so it is not dairy-free as written. Omit dairy to reduce creaminess.

• What temperature should I cook the chicken at?
  Sear the chicken over medium heat for even browning and to reach a safe internal temperature.

• Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
  Yes, but use a very large skillet or Dutch oven so the pasta cooks evenly and liquid covers the pasta.

• Should I cover the pan while the pasta simmers?
  Yes, covering helps the pasta cook through and retain liquid for a creamy sauce.

• How do I reheat leftovers without drying them out?
  Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk and stir until warmed through.

Conclusion

This One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken and Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is a dependable, cozy meal that brings rich flavor without complicated steps. If you enjoy one-pan creamy dishes, you might like this take on a similar classic, One Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken and Veggie Pasta, or a plant-based version like One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta | Vegan Fettucine Alfredo. Try the recipe tonight, share a photo, and let the warm, cheesy comfort speak for itself.