Save to Pinterest A vibrant, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, bowtie pasta, and a creamy basil pesto sauce—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
I first made this pesto chicken bowtie pasta when I wanted something easy yet special for a busy evening. The fresh basil aroma is irresistible, and it's always a hit with my family.
Ingredients
- Pasta: 340 g (12 oz) bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- Chicken: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g), cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- Sauce: 120 g (1/2 cup) basil pesto (store-bought or homemade); 120 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream; 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Vegetables (optional): 120 g (1 cup) cherry tomatoes, halved; 60 g (2 cups) baby spinach
- Garnish: 2 tbsp toasted pine nuts (optional); extra grated Parmesan cheese; fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 60 ml (1/4 cup) of pasta water.
- Prepare the chicken:
- While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the sauce:
- In the same skillet, lower the heat to medium. Add pesto and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine and toss:
- Return chicken to the skillet. Add cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add vegetables:
- If using, add cherry tomatoes and baby spinach. Cook for 2–3 minutes until spinach is wilted and tomatoes are just softened.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with toasted pine nuts, extra Parmesan, and fresh basil.
Save to Pinterest This recipe is a real crowd-pleaser in our home, especially when everyone gathers for a hearty meal together. Watching my kids sprinkle extra cheese on top always makes me smile.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, colander, chefs knife, cutting board, wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains: Milk/dairy (Parmesan, cream, pesto), pine nuts (in pesto and as garnish), gluten (pasta). Always check pesto labels for possible cashews or other allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 580, Total Fat: 25 g, Carbohydrates: 57 g, Protein: 34 g
Save to Pinterest Enjoy the creamy, herby goodness of this crowd-pleasing pasta. It's a dish that's sure to become a weeknight favorite!
Common Recipe Questions
- → Can I substitute bowtie pasta?
Yes, penne or fusilli work well if you prefer a different pasta shape.
- → How can I make this dish lighter?
Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or use less cheese to reduce richness.
- → What vegetables pair best?
Cherry tomatoes and baby spinach add freshness, but you can use zucchini or arugula.
- → Is rotisserie chicken suitable?
Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a great time-saving option and works perfectly in this dish.
- → What garnish enhances the dish?
Toasted pine nuts, extra Parmesan, and fresh basil leaves boost flavor and visual appeal.
- → What wines pair well?
A crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, complements the creamy pesto sauce beautifully.