Save A vibrant, flavorful pasta dish featuring tender chicken, bowtie pasta, and a creamy basil pesto sauce—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
I first tried this pesto chicken bowtie pasta on a busy evening, and it quickly became a staple because everyone loved how creamy and vibrant it tasted with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- Bowtie pasta: 340 g (12 oz), cooked al dente
- Chicken breasts: 2 boneless, skinless (about 400 g), cut into bite-sized pieces
- Olive oil: 1 tbsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp
- Freshly ground black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Basil pesto: 120 g (1/2 cup), store-bought or homemade
- Heavy cream: 120 ml (1/2 cup)
- Parmesan cheese: 2 tbsp grated, plus extra for garnish
- Cherry tomatoes (optional): 120 g (1 cup), halved
- Baby spinach (optional): 60 g (2 cups)
- Toasted pine nuts (optional): 2 tbsp, for garnish
- Fresh basil leaves: For garnish
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 everything:
- Return chicken to the skillet. Add cooked pasta, reserved pasta water, and Parmesan cheese. Toss to coat evenly.
- Add vegetables (optional):
- 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 My family always requests this dish for casual dinners, and it's become one of our weeknight go-tos for a meal that feels special with little extra work.
Required Tools
Large pot, large skillet, colander, chefs knife, cutting board, wooden spoon
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 580, Total Fat: 25 g, Carbohydrates: 57 g, Protein: 34 g
Serving Suggestions
This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio and a simple side salad to round out the meal.
Save This recipe is as delicious as it is simple, making it perfect for both busy nights and relaxed gatherings. Enjoy a taste of comfort with every creamy, basil-scented bite.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → What pasta works best for this dish?
Bowtie (farfalle) pasta is recommended for its shape, but penne or fusilli also work well.
- → Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, rotisserie or grilled chicken can be used to speed up preparation.
- → How can I lighten the creamy sauce?
Substituting half-and-half for heavy cream reduces richness while maintaining creaminess.
- → Are there options for adding vegetables?
Cherry tomatoes and baby spinach provide freshness, but other greens or vegetables can be added.
- → What garnishes complement the dish?
Toasted pine nuts, extra grated Parmesan, and fresh basil leaves add texture and flavor boosts.