Bow Tie Pasta With Chicken Alfredo

Name: Bow Tie Pasta With Chicken Alfredo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 12 oz bow tie pasta; 2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Simple & Tasty

I love making Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken Alfredo because it’s the perfect comfort food that satisfies my cravings for creamy and savory flavors. The bow tie pasta holds the rich Alfredo sauce beautifully, ensuring that every bite is a delicious experience. This dish also comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. I enjoy adding a sprinkle of parsley on top for that fresh touch, and I always manage to sneak in a few extra vegetables for added nutrition without compromising on flavor.

Created by

Mia Jefferson

Last updated on 2026-02-27T14:05:36.187Z

When I first tried making Chicken Alfredo at home, I was surprised by how simple the process was. Using a combination of heavy cream, garlic, and Parmesan cheese creates a luscious sauce that coats the bow tie pasta perfectly. One tip I discovered is to reserve some pasta water before draining; adding a splash of it to the sauce can help achieve the silky texture that makes every mouthful delightful.

I love to grill the chicken breasts to add a smoky depth to the dish, complementing the creaminess of the Alfredo sauce. Pairing this pasta with a fresh side salad makes for a balanced meal that my family always enjoys. The beauty of this recipe is that it can easily be customized by adding broccoli or spinach for extra texture and flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, creamy Alfredo sauce that coats the pasta perfectly
Grilled chicken adds protein and flavor to the dish
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights

The Perfect Pasta Choice

Using bow tie pasta, or farfalle, not only adds a playful shape to your dish but also enhances the overall culinary experience. The unique shape of bow tie pasta allows it to hold the creamy Alfredo sauce effectively, ensuring that every bite delivers that desired richness. When cooking the pasta, it's essential to keep a close eye on the timing; it should be perfectly al dente, which means it should still have a slight bite to it when you taste it. This texture creates a delightful contrast with the velvety sauce.

If you want to experiment with other pasta types, consider using shells or rigatoni. However, ensure that whatever pasta you choose can adequately hold the sauce, as a smooth, creamy sauce will cling better to some shapes than others. Always remember to generously salt your water, as this is the primary chance to season your pasta.

Creating a Luscious Alfredo Sauce

The key to a perfect Alfredo sauce lies in the balance of creaminess and flavor. As you cook the garlic, watch for it to turn golden, as this step enhances its aroma and flavor without risking bitterness. Once you add the heavy cream, bring it to a gentle simmer, maintaining a medium heat to prevent it from boiling over; it should start to thicken noticeably, which typically takes around 3 to 5 minutes. Stirring continuously is crucial during this stage, so the sauce remains smooth and prevents curdling.

Another important element of the sauce is the nutmeg, a seemingly small addition that enhances the overall depth of flavor. Nutmeg complements the richness of the cream and cheese beautifully. If you're looking to make this dish dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with a combination of cashew cream and nutritional yeast, adjusting the amount of nutmeg for the desired flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips

When it comes to serving Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken Alfredo, presentation can elevate the meal. Try garnishing each plate with freshly chopped parsley and a light sprinkle of additional Parmesan cheese for an attractive finish. This not only adds color but also an extra burst of flavor. For a touch of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top, which pairs wonderfully with the richness of the sauce.

As for leftovers, this dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you wish to reheat, do so gently over low heat on the stove, adding a little reserved pasta water or milk to restore the creamy consistency. If you prefer to prepare it in advance, consider cooking the chicken ahead of time and keeping the sauce separate until ready to serve to ensure optimal freshness and flavor.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Chicken

12 oz bow tie pasta
2 chicken breasts, grilled and sliced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Alfredo Sauce

1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Steps

Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10–12 minutes. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.

Prepare the Alfredo Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and nutmeg, mixing until well combined.

Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta and grilled chicken to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Toss everything together to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Plate the pasta and top with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious Bow Tie Pasta with Chicken Alfredo!

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken in Italian herbs before grilling. You can also substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.

Customizing Your Dish

One of the great aspects of this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to add in your favorite vegetables to boost the nutritional profile without sacrificing taste. Spinach, broccoli, or peas can be quickly sautéed alongside the garlic before adding the cream. Each will impart additional color and flavor, making the dish even more comforting and wholesome.

For a protein twist, consider swapping out the chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option. If using shrimp, add them to the pan right after sautéing the garlic, cooking until they turn pink and opaque. This not only infuses the sauce with a seafood essence but also creates a different texture that's equally satisfying.

Scaling the Recipe

If you're planning to serve a larger group, scaling this recipe is simple. For every two additional servings, increase the amount of pasta by 4 oz and use about 1 cup of heavy cream along with 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese. Keep in mind that as you increase quantities, adjust the seasoning carefully, tasting as you go to maintain balance.

It's also essential to use a larger pot or skillet to ensure that everything cooks evenly. A crowded pan can result in uneven cooking and prevent a good sear on the chicken. If you're making it for a special occasion, you can even prepare individual servings in ramekins, topping each with fresh herbs and a touch of cheese before baking for a delightful presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Any pasta shape will work, but I recommend using ones that can hold sauce well.

→ Is there a vegetarian option for this dish?

Yes! You can omit the chicken and add more vegetables like mushrooms or broccoli for a hearty vegetarian meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop and add a splash of cream to revive the sauce.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and grill the chicken ahead of time, then just cook the pasta when you're ready to serve.