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.
The first time I made this, my whole family was drawn by the fresh scent of basil filling the kitchen. Even picky eaters asked for seconds!
Ingredients
- Bowtie (farfalle) pasta: 340 g (12 oz)
- 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
- Cherry tomatoes (optional): 120 g (1 cup), halved
- Baby spinach (optional): 60 g (2 cups)
- Toasted pine nuts (optional): 2 tbsp
- Extra grated Parmesan cheese: for serving
- Fresh basil leaves: for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 60 ml (1/4 cup) of pasta water.
- Cook 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 to 7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the sauce:
- In the same skillet, lower heat to medium. Add pesto and heavy cream. Stir to combine and let simmer for 2 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Combine pasta and chicken:
- 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 to 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 meal instantly became a new comfort-food staple at our table. Even on rushed evenings, we would gather together and enjoy every bite.
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). Some pestos might have tree nuts—check packaging before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 580, Total Fat: 25 g, Carbohydrates: 57 g, Protein: 34 g
Save to Pinterest Your family will love this easy pasta dinner. It is flavorful, satisfying, and sure to be requested again and again!
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Bowtie (farfalle) pasta is ideal because its shape holds the creamy pesto sauce well, but penne or fusilli are great substitutes.
- → Can I use store-bought pesto for convenience?
Yes, store-bought basil pesto works well and speeds up preparation, though homemade pesto can enhance freshness and flavor.
- → How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Cook chicken pieces over medium-high heat until golden and just cooked through to keep them juicy and tender.
- → Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Cherry tomatoes and baby spinach are excellent options for adding color and freshness without overpowering the flavors.
- → What are good garnishes to complement the dish?
Toasted pine nuts, extra grated Parmesan, and fresh basil leaves provide delightful texture and aroma enhancements.
- → Is it possible to lighten the creamy sauce?
Substituting half-and-half for heavy cream reduces richness while maintaining a creamy texture.