One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Warm, comforting, and ready in under an hour, this One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken and Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is the kind of weeknight dinner that tastes like a treat. Tender bite-sized chicken pieces seared to a golden finish mingle with al dente bowtie pasta in a garlicky, creamy broth that becomes an irresistible sauce when finished with melted mozzarella and Parmesan. The texture is rich and silky from the milk and optional heavy cream, with a lovely gooey cheese pull from the mozzarella and a savory, nutty finish from the Parmesan. The aroma of garlic and browned chicken will fill your kitchen and invite everyone to the table. This recipe works perfectly for busy weeknights, casual family dinners, or anytime you want a simple, hearty one-pan meal that cleans up easily. If you enjoy similar comfort recipes, try this creamy garlic chicken pasta for another delicious take.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter — For searing the chicken and building flavor. Use olive oil for a lighter taste or butter for a richer finish.
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces — Lean protein; cutting into small pieces speeds cooking and helps even browning.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning — A blend of dried herbs to add classic Italian flavor.
1/2 teaspoon salt — Enhances overall taste. Adjust to your preference.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper — Adds mild heat and balance.
4 cloves garlic, minced — Provides aromatic depth and savory punch.
4 cups chicken broth (low sodium) — The cooking liquid for the pasta and base for the creamy sauce. For a similar one-pot method reference this one-pot creamy garlic pasta.
3 cups uncooked bowtie pasta (farfalle) — Holds sauce well and gives satisfying texture.
1 cup whole milk or half-and-half — Adds creaminess and helps form the sauce.
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness) — Optional for a silkier, richer sauce if desired.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese — Melts into stretchy, creamy cheese strings.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese — Adds salty, nutty finish and depth.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) — Bright herb to finish and add color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the chicken so it browns nicely.
In a bowl, season the 1 lb cut chicken breast with 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Mix to coat evenly.
Add the seasoned chicken to the hot pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until golden. Stir occasionally so the pieces brown on all sides. Do not overcrowd the pan for better browning.
Remove the chicken from the pan, keeping the browned bits in the bottom of the skillet. Those browned bits add flavor to the sauce.
Add the 4 cloves minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Watch closely so the garlic does not burn.
Pour in 4 cups chicken broth and bring to a boil, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits. This adds rich flavor to the liquid.
Stir in 3 cups uncooked bowtie pasta and cover the pan, letting it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes until al dente. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If your pan is shallower, use a lid to trap steam.
Stir in 1 cup whole milk (and 1/2 cup heavy cream if using) and return the chicken to the pan, simmering for 2 to 3 minutes to heat through. This step finishes the cooking and blends the dairy into the sauce.
Add 1 cup shredded mozzarella and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan, stirring until melted. Taste and adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed.
Garnish with 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped, and serve hot. Enjoy straight from the pan for easy cleanup.

For a tip on browning chicken and quick turnarounds, this method is similar to techniques used in creamy rotisserie chicken recipes.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 520 to 580 kcal per serving, depending on whether you use the optional heavy cream.

Tips, Storage & Variations

Tips:
- Use a deep skillet or pan with a tight-fitting lid so the pasta cooks evenly in the broth.
- Do not rush the initial browning of the chicken; those caramelized bits build flavor.
- If the sauce seems too thin after adding milk, let it simmer uncovered for an extra minute or two to reduce slightly.
Storage:
- Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce.
Freezing:
- Freezing is not ideal for best texture due to the dairy, but you can freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly with a little milk.
Flavor variations using only ingredients on the list:
- Extra creamy: Add the optional 1/2 cup heavy cream for a richer, silkier sauce.
- Cheesier finish: Increase the mozzarella slightly for a more gooey texture, or add a touch more Parmesan for a sharper flavor.
- Lighter option: Use whole milk or half-and-half and omit the heavy cream to reduce richness while keeping the sauce creamy.
- For ideas pairing garlic-forward pasta dishes, see this creamy tomato and garlic variation creamy tomato garlic pasta.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different pasta shape?
A: Yes, you can substitute other shapes, but cooking times may vary. Adjust simmering time until al dente.

Q: Do I have to use heavy cream?
A: No. Heavy cream is optional for extra richness. Whole milk or half-and-half will still create a creamy sauce.

Q: Is low sodium broth necessary?
A: Low sodium is recommended so you can control the overall salt level. You can use regular broth and reduce added salt.

Q: How do I prevent the pasta from sticking?
A: Stir occasionally while it simmers and ensure there is enough liquid to cover most of the pasta.

Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes. If using cooked chicken, add it back in at the milk step to heat through for 2 to 3 minutes.

Conclusion

This One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken and Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is a cozy, satisfying meal that balances tender chicken, creamy sauce, and melty cheese with minimal cleanup. If you liked this style of skillet dinner, you might enjoy the related One Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken and Veggie Pasta for an extra veggie-forward option, or try a dairy-free inspired take with the vegan guide at One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta | Vegan Fettucine Alfredo. Give this recipe a try, share it with friends or family, and enjoy the comfort of a simple, flavorful one-pan dinner.