Description

Nothing says comfort like a creamy, cheesy pasta packed with wholesome ingredients. This Cheddar & Havarti Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Roasted Broccoli and Carrots is the ultimate weeknight dinner for families who crave something warm, satisfying, and full of flavor. Tender chicken, perfectly roasted vegetables, and a rich, velvety cheese sauce made with sharp cheddar and smooth Havarti come together in a dish that’s both indulgent and nutritious. Perfect for cozy evenings, casual dinner parties, or whenever you want a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug, this recipe is designed to impress while remaining easy to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

2 tbsp olive oil
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups broccoli florets
2 cups carrots, sliced into thin sticks or coins
12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded Havarti cheese
1 tsp Italian seasoning
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt & freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

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Instructions

Roast the Vegetables
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss the broccoli florets and sliced carrots with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, a pinch of salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Spread the vegetables evenly on a baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they aren’t overcrowded. Roast for 15–20 minutes, until tender and slightly golden, bringing out their natural sweetness and depth of flavor.
Cook the Pasta
Bring 4 cups of chicken broth to a boil in a large pot. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente, about 10–12 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water before draining. Set the pasta aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.
Cook the Chicken
Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook for 6–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
Build the Cheese Sauce
Reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, then gradually whisk in shredded cheddar and Havarti until smooth. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
Combine Pasta, Chicken, and Vegetables
Add cooked pasta, roasted vegetables, and chicken into the skillet. Toss thoroughly until everything is coated in the creamy sauce. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve and Garnish
Transfer to serving bowls or a large platter. Garnish with fresh parsley and additional cheddar if desired. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Use freshly shredded cheese for a smoother sauce.
Roasting vegetables enhances flavor and adds natural sweetness.
Cook pasta al dente to prevent mushiness when combined with sauce.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat gently with a splash of milk or pasta water.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes