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.
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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
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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.
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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.
