chicken and farfalle pasta recipe

The Best chicken and farfalle pasta recipe

This dish is one of my go-to comfort foods, something I make not just because it’s easy but because it always feels like a hug for my family. I love how the tender chicken and the bright, garlicky sauce cling together perfectly, while the farfalle pasta soaks up every last bit of flavor. It’s that kind of recipe that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen—just a little prep and a lot of love. My kids will eat it straight from the bowl, and my husband always says it’s the only pasta he’ll eat if it’s got this sauce. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner but feels special enough for a dinner party or a lazy Sunday when you just want something hearty and satisfying.

I also appreciate how balanced this recipe is. The chicken is lean but still packed with protein, and the pasta adds a touch of carbs for energy. The veggies in the sauce—peppers, onions, and herbs—give it freshness without being heavy, and the garlic and lemon brighten things up without overpowering. It’s not a super healthy meal by any means, but it’s not the worst thing you can eat either. And honestly? The only time I ever feel guilty about it is when I’m trying to lose weight, and even then, I’ll make a big batch and freeze half for later. My kids don’t seem to notice the difference—it’s just another meal they look forward to. Plus, it’s so versatile. You can make it lighter by using less cheese or swap out the pasta for whole wheat if you want to boost the nutrition a little. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy to customize, whether you’re feeding a crowd or just yourself.

Creamy Garlic Chicken with Farfalle Pasta

4.8 from 1487 votes

A comforting dish featuring tender chicken in a rich garlic and cream sauce paired with al dente farfalle pasta. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time35 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time55 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 1 lb (450g) farfalle pasta
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs (700g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Sauce

• 3 tbsp butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Season chicken thighs with thyme, rosemary, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, and set aside.
2. 2 Cook pasta according to package instructions in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water before draining.
3. 3 In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add chicken thighs and cook until browned on all sides (~8-10 mins). Remove chicken and set aside.
4. 4 In the same skillet, add olive oil and sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, simmer for 3-4 mins.
5. 5 Return chicken to the skillet, add drained pasta, and toss to coat evenly. Stir in Parmesan and parsley. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water.

🔧Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot with lid
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Pasta cooker or large pot
• Wooden spoon
• Fine-mesh strainer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 22💛Saturated Fat: 14❤️Cholesterol: 100🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 50🥦Dietary Fiber: 4🍬Sugars: 6🥩Protein: 35

📝Notes

For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine while simmering the sauce.,Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.,Garnish with additional fresh parsley and grated Parmesan before serving.

This chicken and farfalle pasta recipe is always a solid choice for any family gathering because it’s simple enough to prepare ahead of time while still feeling special when served. The tender chicken and cheesy sauce make it hearty and satisfying, and the farfalle adds just the right texture to balance everything out. It doesn’t require fancy ingredients or last-minute stress, so it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a comforting meal that everyone will enjoy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Chicken with Farfalle Pasta

1. What is the difference between Farfalle pasta and regular pasta shapes like penne or spaghetti?

Farfalle, also known as “bow-tie pasta,” is characterized by its distinct bow-shaped rings, which create a larger surface area for sauce absorption compared to flat noodles like spaghetti or tubular shapes like penne. This shape is popular in Italian cuisine, especially in dishes like Chicken and Farfalle Pasta, where the sauce clings better to the pasta’s edges, enhancing flavor.

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2. Can I substitute regular pasta for Farfalle in this recipe?

While you can use a different pasta shape, Farfalle is ideal for this recipe because its bows hold up well to the tenderizing process and sauce. If you’re in a pinch, rotini or fusilli (twisted pasta) can work, but they may not have the same visual appeal or texture. For best results, stick with Farfalle or a similar shape with a similar surface texture.

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3. How do I ensure the chicken stays tender and juicy in this recipe?

To keep the chicken tender, avoid overcooking it. Cook it until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C)—just until the juices run clear and the meat is no longer pink in the center. For extra moisture, consider brining the chicken (soaking in salted water for 30 minutes before cooking) or using a butter-braising method (searing in butter before adding broth). Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming the chicken instead of browning it.

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4. What sauces pair best with Chicken and Farfalle Pasta?

This dish is versatile, but classic Italian flavors shine. The most common pairings include: – Garlic Butter Sauce (melted butter, minced garlic, Parmesan, and fresh herbs like parsley or basil) – Alfredo Sauce (creamy, rich, and smooth—great for a cozy meal) – Marinara or Tomato Sauce (for a lighter, tomato-forward taste) – Pesto (basil, pine nuts, and olive oil—adds a bright, herbaceous note) For a twist, try a lemon-herb butter sauce or a spicy honey-glazed chicken with a simple olive oil base.

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5. How can I make this recipe ahead of time and reheat it properly?

You can prep the chicken and sauce components separately and assemble the pasta the day of serving: – Cook the Farfalle al dente (slightly firm) and store in water (change water every 2 hours to prevent sogginess). – Braise the chicken in its own juices or broth, then refrigerate. Reheat gently in the sauce before combining. – For the sauce, simmer it with extra broth or water to prevent drying out. Reheat on low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot. Pro tip: If using a creamy sauce (like Alfredo), add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to prevent curdling. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3–4 days or frozen for up to 1 month.