Easy Creamy Chicken Bowties Pasta

Creamy Chicken Bowties: The Only Recipe You’ll Ever Need for Easy Herb Chicken Pasta

Imagine coming home after a long day, craving something comforting yet sophisticated that doesn’t take hours in the kitchen. Enter the creamy chicken bowties recipe – a savory chicken recipe featuring tender slices of chicken enveloped in a rich, herb-infused sauce, all tossed with easy bowtie pasta. What makes this version from leosfoods.com stand out is our extra-creamy, herb-infused sauce technique that blends heavy cream with fresh herbs and Parmesan for an unparalleled depth of flavor. Whether you’re a busy parent or a weekend cook, this chicken pasta with herbs delivers restaurant-quality results at home.

Picture the silky texture of the bowtie pasta coated in a velvety sauce that clings to every twist and turn. The savory aroma of sautéed garlic and fresh herbs like basil and thyme fills the air, mingling with the subtle smokiness from the pan-seared chicken. Each bite bursts with layers of flavor: the earthy notes of herbs cutting through the richness of the cream, balanced by the nutty Parmesan. The tender chicken adds a protein punch that’s never dry, while the bowties provide a chewy, satisfying base. It’s a dish that warms the soul, evoking cozy Italian-American nights but with a modern, savory twist that’s easy and approachable.

As Chef Sally, I’ve crafted this creamy chicken bowties recipe over years of experimentation, drawing from classic Italian influences to create an easy bowtie pasta that’s foolproof for beginners yet impressive for dinner parties. At leosfoods.com, we emphasize fresh, quality ingredients to elevate simple meals into extraordinary ones. In this guide, you’ll discover the “chef’s secret” to achieving that extra-creamy sauce, step-by-step instructions with visual aids, nutritional insights, and tips for variations and storage. Trust us – this savory chicken recipe will become your go-to for herb chicken pasta, ensuring every meal feels indulgent and stress-free.

Why This Creamy Chicken Bowties Recipe is a Game-Changer

The Chef’s Secret: What truly sets our creamy chicken bowties apart is the technique of simmering the heavy cream with garlic and broth before adding the herbs and Parmesan, creating an extra-creamy, herb-infused sauce thicker than typical cream sauces. This method avoids curdling and ensures the flavors meld seamlessly, resulting in a silky texture that coats the pasta perfectly. By stirring in fresh basil and thyme at the end, we preserve their vibrant aromas for a punch of freshness that elevates this savory chicken recipe above store-bought versions.

Unbeatable Texture: The science here lies in the emulsion of the sauce. Heavy cream’s high fat content binds with the Parmesan cheese’s casein proteins, forming a stable base that thickens without separating. Paired with the bowtie pasta’s ruffled edges that trap the sauce, each component contributes to a mouthfeel that’s both tender and satisfying, making this easy bowtie pasta irresistible.

Foolproof for a Reason: I’ve tested this herb chicken pasta multiple times to iron out every detail. From slicing the chicken uniformly for even cooking to timing the simmer for the perfect consistency, it’s designed for home cooks of all skill levels. With clear instructions and visual placeholders, you’ll nail it on the first try, turning this savory chicken recipe into a reliable staple.

Ingredient Spotlight: Quality Makes the Difference

Bowtie pasta (farfalle): As the foundation of our creamy chicken bowties, high-quality bowtie pasta holds its shape without becoming mushy. Opt for durum wheat brands for better texture; gluten-free variations work too, but adjust cooking time. Substitution: Rotini or penne if bowties are unavailable.

Boneless chicken breasts: Tender and lean, these provide the protein punch in this chicken pasta with herbs. Fresh or high-quality frozen ensures juiciness; slice thinly for quick cooking. Why quality matters: Marinades aren’t needed here, but using organic prevents toughness.

Heavy cream: This is key for the extra-creamy sauce in our savory chicken recipe. It delivers richness without thinness; full-fat is essential for emulsification. Substitution: Half-and-half for lighter versions, or Greek yogurt for tanginess (stir constantly to avoid separation).

Fresh basil and thyme: These herbs bring the “herb chicken pasta” magic, adding bright, savory notes. Fresh over dried amplifies flavor; chop just before use to retain oils. Quality check: Wilted leaves lose potency – sniff for freshness.

Garlic: Minced finely for even distribution, garlic infuses sweetness into the sauce. Fresh cloves are superior to jarred for depth. Substitution: Garlic powder (1/8 tsp per clove) if needed, but it’ll lack intensity.

Chicken broth: Adds savory depth without overpowering the parsley and thyme in this easy bowtie pasta. Low-sodium allows control over seasoning. Quality matters: Homemade or store-bought organic avoids artificial additives.

Parmesan cheese: Grated fine, it contributes nutty saltiness and thickens the sauce. Aged varieties offer sharper flavor; shred yourself for melty integration. Substitution: Pecorino Romano for a saltier kick, or nutritional yeast for vegan twists.

Olive oil: Used for sautéing, extra-virgin brings fruity undertones. High-quality oil prevents burning. Substitution: Vegetable oil in a pinch, but it alters the profile.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Creamy Chicken Bowties

Step 1: Preparing the Bowtie Pasta

Cook the 8 oz bowtie pasta according to package instructions in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente – about 10-12 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside, reserving 1/4 cup pasta water if needed later. This ensures the easy bowtie pasta retains bite while absorbing the savory chicken recipe sauce.

Pro Tip: Add a splash of oil to the water to prevent sticking, and taste as you go since al dente prevents sogginess.

Step 2: Browning the Chicken Breasts

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat. Add the 2 sliced boneless chicken breasts, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove the chicken and set aside to prevent overcooking. This step builds flavor for the herb chicken pasta base.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Avoid crowding the pan – cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning without steaming the meat.

Step 3: Sautéing the Garlic

In the same skillet, add 2 minced garlic cloves and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to avoid burning. The garlic will infuse the oil with its aromatic essence, elevating this savory chicken recipe.

Pro Tip: If browning occurs too quickly, reduce heat to low – burned garlic turns bitter.

Step 4: Building the Creamy Sauce

Stir in 1/2 cup chicken broth, 1 cup heavy cream, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil, and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. This creates the extra-creamy, herb-infused sauce by allowing flavors to meld.

Common Mistake to Avoid: Boiling instead of simmering leads to curdled cream – watch closely and maintain a gentle bubble.

Step 5: Combining Chicken and Finishing

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sauce, stirring to coat. Cook for another 2-3 minutes. Add the drained bowtie pasta and 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, tossing everything together until heated through and creamy. Adjust salt and pepper to taste – this unites the savory chicken recipe into a cohesive dish.

Pro Tip: If too thick, add reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time for looseness.

Serving & Presentation for Creamy Chicken Bowties

Serve this creamy chicken bowties immediately for the best texture, garnished with extra chopped herbs and a sprinkle of Parmesan. For a presentation boost, plate on warm dishes to keep heat. Pair with a side salad of mixed greens drizzled in vinaigrette to balance the richness, or steamed broccoli for vitamin C. This savory chicken recipe shines as a main course for dinner parties, accompanied by garlic bread to soak up the sauce.

To impress, layer the bowtie pasta in a shallow bowl, top with sliced chicken, and drizzle remaining sauce artistically. Add color with cherry tomatoes or microgreens on the side. Complement with wine – a crisp Sauvignon Blanc cuts through the creaminess. For everyday meals, portion into bowls and enjoy as a comforting lunch, proving it’s not just an easy bowtie pasta but a versatile herb chicken pasta staple.

Make-Ahead & Storage Solutions for Creamy Chicken Bowties

Make-Ahead Strategy: Prepare chicken and sauce components up to 2 days ahead; store separately in airtight containers. Reheat sauce gently on low, then toss with freshly cooked pasta for optimal freshness.

Storing Leftovers: Cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze sauce separately (without pasta) for up to 1 month.

The Best Way to Reheat: Warm on stovetop with a splash of broth to loosen, stirring frequently – microwave works but may separate fats. This preserves the extra-creamy texture of your savory chicken recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Creamy Chicken Bowties