If you’re craving comfort food that feels indulgent but still comes together easily, Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken is about to become your weeknight hero. It’s creamy, rich, and full of cozy flavor, with tender bowtie pasta swimming in a velvety cheese sauce. The juicy garlic parmesan chicken on top adds that savory, crispy edge we all crave.

What makes this dish so special is its ability to satisfy every kind of eater. Whether you need a quick family dinner or a cozy date night meal, it delivers. The combo of cheese, garlic, and golden chicken hits that perfect flavor trifecta, and it’s all wrapped around pasta that cooks in minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This dish checks all the boxes: it’s fast, family-friendly, and packed with bold flavor. The cheese sauce is ultra-creamy without being too heavy, and the garlic parmesan chicken adds a crunchy contrast that’s so satisfying. You can even prep the chicken ahead of time for an even faster meal. Plus, it reheats like a dream, so leftovers are something to look forward to.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best in This Dish?

Bowtie pasta (also known as farfalle) is our pick because it holds onto sauce so well, and it looks a little extra fancy without any added effort. But if you have rotini, penne, or even fettuccine on hand, they’ll work too. Just make sure you cook the pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy in the sauce.

Ingredients for the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

What makes this dish truly irresistible is the balance between creamy, cheesy pasta and flavorful, golden-crusted chicken. Each ingredient plays a key role in building layers of taste and texture, so use fresh when you can.

Bowtie pasta
Chicken breasts
Garlic powder
Parmesan cheese
Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper
Olive oil
Butter
Heavy cream
Cheddar cheese
Mozzarella cheese
Chicken broth

Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken 2

How To Make the Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Boil the bowtie pasta in salted water according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prep the Chicken

Slice the chicken breasts in half horizontally to create thinner cutlets. Season both sides with garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chicken cutlets and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 4–5 minutes per side. Remove from pan and let rest.

Step 4: Make the Cheese Sauce

In the same skillet, add a bit more butter if needed. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheeses, then sprinkle in more garlic powder and a generous amount of grated parmesan. Stir until melted and smooth.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat evenly in the cheese sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 6: Slice and Serve Chicken

Slice the rested chicken into strips and lay them over the cheesy bowtie pasta. Garnish with more parmesan and chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot.

How to Serve and Store This Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken

This recipe yields enough to feed 4 to 6 people generously, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a small gathering. Serve it straight from the skillet while the cheese is gooey and the chicken is still juicy. A little sprinkle of extra parmesan and fresh herbs goes a long way.

To store leftovers, let everything cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creaminess, and warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

What to Serve With Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken?

Garlic Bread

You can never go wrong with warm garlic bread to mop up that luscious cheese sauce.

Roasted Asparagus

The freshness and slight crunch of roasted asparagus adds balance to the creamy richness of the pasta.

Classic Caprese Salad

Tomato, mozzarella, and basil salad offers a refreshing contrast and a pop of acidity.

Caesar Salad

The crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunch of croutons pair beautifully with the hearty pasta.

Creamed Spinach

For another creamy side that leans into the comfort food vibe, creamed spinach is a solid choice.

Lemon Butter Green Beans

Light and zesty green beans bring brightness and a bit of snap to your plate.

Roasted Zucchini and Squash

These simple roasted veggies offer color and texture that balance well with the dish.

Herby Chicken Meatball Bowl (as a protein-packed side twist)

If you’re feeding a bigger crowd, this makes for a filling companion dish that complements the flavors nicely.

Want More Pasta Dinner Ideas?

If you loved this Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken, here are a few more comfort-filled pasta dishes from Janet Dishes to keep in rotation:

• Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta if you’re craving something tangy, creamy, and packed with veggies.
• Delicious Ooey Gooey Mac and Cheese for classic comfort at its finest.
• One-Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni when you want minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.
• Creamy Cajun Sausage Pasta for a spicy, smoky twist.
• Tuscan Chicken Pasta for those craving a rich and herby weeknight indulgence.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it anytime you’re craving creamy pasta comfort food.

Let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you switch up the cheeses or add veggies like spinach or mushrooms? I love hearing how others customize this dish to make it their own.

Explore beautifully curated family dinners, cozy casseroles, and health-boosting drinks on Janet Dishes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to recipes.

Conclusion

Cheesy Bowtie Pasta with Garlic Parmesan Chicken brings the ultimate combination of creamy, cheesy pasta and savory, golden chicken to your table in under an hour. It’s flexible, satisfying, and impressive enough to serve to guests without the stress. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight treat or hosting a casual dinner, this dish brings the flavor and comfort every time.