Craving a comforting yet sophisticated dinner that's ready in under 30 minutes? Look no further! This Chicken Bow Tie Pasta recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a healthy, homemade meal that's packed with flavor and surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks. This recipe offers a delicious and satisfying twist on classic pasta dishes, perfect for a quick dinner or a family meal. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet elegant dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 ounces bow tie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bow tie pasta and cook according to package directions, until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
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Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, heavy cream, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, allowing it to slightly thicken.
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Combine and Serve: Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for the Best Chicken Bow Tie Pasta:
- Use fresh herbs: If possible, use fresh oregano and basil instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key for the best texture.
- Adjust the seasoning: Taste the sauce before adding the pasta and chicken and adjust the salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking.
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to this dish, such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Bow Tie Pasta: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a little heat.
- Lemon Chicken Bow Tie Pasta: Add the zest and juice of one lemon to the sauce for a bright, citrusy flavor.
- Creamy Tomato Chicken Bow Tie Pasta: Increase the amount of heavy cream to 3/4 cup for an extra creamy sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 40-45g
This easy chicken bow tie pasta recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It’s a delicious dish that’s sure to become a family favorite, providing a comforting and satisfying experience every time. Enjoy!