One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta

Introduction

This One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is comfort food at its simplest, ready on weeknights yet special enough for guests. Tender, bite-sized chicken pieces seared until golden mix with fragrant garlic, then simmer together with bowtie pasta in a rich, milky broth until every pasta bow is coated in a silky sauce. The final melt of mozzarella and Parmesan creates a gooey, satisfying texture while the parsley adds a bright, fresh finish. If you enjoy cozy pasta dinners with bold garlic flavor, you might also like a savory twist like garlic butter beef cheesy bowtie pasta. This dish is ideal for busy nights, potlucks, and comforting weekend meals when you want one pan and minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil or butter, Use whichever you prefer for searing and flavor.
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces, Bite-sized pieces cook quickly and stay tender.
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning, A blend of dried herbs that adds classic Italian flavor.
1/2 teaspoon salt, Adjust to taste, especially if your broth is salty.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, Freshly ground if possible for best aroma.
4 cloves garlic, minced, Adds pungent, aromatic garlic flavor throughout the dish.
4 cups chicken broth (low sodium), Low sodium gives control over saltiness while providing rich savory liquid.
3 cups uncooked bowtie pasta (farfalle), Bowtie shapes hold sauce and make each bite satisfying.
1 cup whole milk or half-and-half, Adds creaminess and balances the broth.
1/2 cup heavy cream (optional, for extra richness), Optional for a more indulgent, velvety sauce.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese, Melts into gooey strands for creamy texture.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, Adds savory, nutty depth and saltiness.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish), Brightens the finished dish and adds color.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Allow the fat to warm so it sizzles slightly when the chicken is added.
Season the chicken with Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Add the seasoned chicken to the hot pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until golden and fully cooked. Tip: Avoid crowding the pan so the chicken browns instead of steams.
Remove the cooked chicken from the pan and set aside. Keep any browned bits in the pan for extra flavor.
In the same pan, sauté garlic for about a minute until fragrant. Stir constantly so the garlic does not burn.
Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release browned bits.
Stir in the uncooked bowtie pasta. Give everything a quick stir to separate the pasta.
Reduce heat, cover the pan, and let the pasta simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until al dente and most of the broth is absorbed. Tip: Stir a few times during simmering to prevent the pasta from sticking.
Stir in milk (and heavy cream if using), and add the cooked chicken back to the pan. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes to warm through and allow the sauce to thicken.
Add mozzarella and Parmesan, stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed with a pinch more salt or pepper.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. For presentation, sprinkle parsley just before serving so it stays bright.

Conclusion

This One Pan Creamy Garlic Chicken & Cheesy Bowtie Pasta is a reliable weeknight winner that balances creamy, garlicky sauce with tender chicken and tender bowtie pasta. If you try it, I hope it becomes a favorite in your rotation; feel free to share your tweaks and photos. For a plant-based take on creamy one pot garlic pasta, see One Pot Creamy Garlic Pasta | Vegan Fettucine Alfredo, and for another chicken and veggie variation, check out One Pot Creamy Garlic Chicken and Veggie Pasta. Enjoy this cozy meal with family and friends.