Cheddar & Havarti Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Roasted Broccoli & Carrots

Introduction

If you’re looking for a comforting, cheesy, and veggie-packed pasta dinner, this Cheddar & Havarti Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Roasted Broccoli & Carrots is the recipe you need. Creamy, hearty, and loaded with flavor, this dish makes weeknight dinners feel special while still being easy enough to prepare on busy days. It’s a wholesome, family-friendly recipe that brings together golden roasted vegetables, tender chicken, and two melty cheeses in one irresistible meal.

My recipe story

This recipe came about one evening when I wanted something cozy but also balanced with protein and veggies. I had a bag of bowtie pasta in the pantry, some chicken thawed in the fridge, and a handful of vegetables that needed to be used. Roasting broccoli and carrots gave them a sweet, caramelized flavor that paired perfectly with creamy Havarti and sharp Cheddar. The result was such a hit that it became a regular in my household. Now, it’s one of my favorite go-to pasta recipes for when I want to impress with minimal effort.

Ingredient breakdown

The beauty of this pasta dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Chicken breast is the protein of choice here, offering a lean and tender bite that pairs wonderfully with the creamy sauce. Cutting it into small, bite-sized pieces ensures quick and even cooking, which is perfect for busy nights.

The vegetables—broccoli and carrots—play a starring role. Roasting them brings out their natural sweetness and gives them slightly crispy edges that contrast beautifully with the creamy pasta. Tossing them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting enhances their flavor and ensures they bake evenly.

Cheddar and Havarti are the star cheeses in this recipe. Cheddar adds sharpness and depth, while Havarti provides a creamy, buttery richness. Together, they create a velvety sauce that coats every piece of pasta. Bowtie pasta, with its fun shape and ridges, holds onto the sauce and bits of veggies, making every bite satisfying.

Olive oil, garlic, and simple seasonings round everything out, ensuring the dish is flavorful without being overly complicated. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you’ll create a dinner that feels gourmet without requiring extra effort.

Equipment you’ll need

• Baking sheet for roasting vegetables
• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or sauté pan for cooking chicken and sauce
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander for draining pasta

Step-by-step directions

1. Prep the vegetables: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Toss broccoli florets and carrot slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in an even layer and roast for 18–20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until golden and tender.
2. Cook the pasta: While the vegetables roast, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water to help with the sauce if needed.
3. Cook the chicken: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Cook for 5–7 minutes until browned and fully cooked, then transfer to a plate and set aside.
4. Make the sauce: In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add a touch more olive oil if needed. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add a splash of pasta water and gradually stir in shredded Cheddar and Havarti cheeses. Stir until melted into a creamy sauce.
5. Combine everything: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and roasted vegetables into the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until well coated, adding reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce and help it cling to the pasta.
6. Finish and serve: Taste and adjust seasonings with salt and pepper. Serve warm, garnished with extra shredded cheese or fresh herbs if desired.

Variations & substitutions

This recipe is flexible and can be customized to fit your preferences. Swap chicken for cooked shrimp, ground turkey, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist. If you don’t have Havarti, substitute it with mozzarella for a mild flavor or Gouda for a smoky touch. Broccoli and carrots can easily be replaced with zucchini, bell peppers, or even roasted cauliflower. You can also experiment with different pasta shapes—penne, rigatoni, or shells work well and hold the sauce beautifully. For a lighter version, use whole wheat pasta and reduce the amount of cheese slightly without losing the comforting flavor.

Storage, freezing & make-ahead

This pasta dish stores well, making it a great make-ahead option. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to bring back the creaminess of the sauce. To freeze, cool the pasta completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. If you want to prep ahead, roast the vegetables and cook the chicken a day in advance, then assemble the dish quickly when ready to serve.

Serving ideas & pairings

This hearty pasta pairs beautifully with a fresh, crisp green salad to balance the richness of the cheese. Garlic bread or a warm baguette makes a perfect side to soak up the creamy sauce. For beverages, a chilled glass of white wine like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish wonderfully, while sparkling water with lemon makes a refreshing non-alcoholic option. For a family-friendly pairing, serve with iced tea or a fruity punch. To finish the meal, consider a light dessert such as fruit salad, lemon sorbet, or chocolate-dipped strawberries.

FAQ

Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and pat them dry before roasting. Fresh vegetables will give the best texture and flavor.

What other cheeses work well in this recipe?
Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even a touch of Parmesan can be used if you don’t have Havarti or Cheddar.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken or replace it with tofu, chickpeas, or more roasted veggies for a satisfying meat-free option.

How do I prevent the cheese sauce from becoming grainy?
Make sure to use freshly grated cheese and stir it in slowly over medium heat. Avoid overheating, as high heat can cause cheese to separate.

Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes! Kids love the cheesy pasta, and roasting the vegetables brings out a natural sweetness that makes them more appealing to younger palates.

Final thoughts

Cheddar & Havarti Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Roasted Broccoli & Carrots is the perfect recipe to bring comfort and flavor to your dinner table. It’s wholesome, creamy, and easy to customize to your family’s tastes. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner, meal prepping ahead, or sharing with guests, it’s a dish that never disappoints. With its balance of tender chicken, cheesy sauce, and roasted vegetables, this pasta will quickly become a recipe you’ll return to again and again.

Cheddar & Havarti Chicken Bowtie Pasta with Roasted Broccoli & Carrots

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• Author: Sarah White
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A creamy, cheesy pasta dish with tender chicken, roasted vegetables, and a perfect blend of Cheddar and Havarti. Comforting and family-friendly!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tbsp olive oil, divided

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

• 2 cups broccoli florets

• 1 ½ cups carrots, thinly sliced

• 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup shredded sharp Cheddar cheese

• 1 cup shredded Havarti cheese

• ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• Fresh herbs or extra cheese, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss broccoli and carrots with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast on a baking sheet for 18–20 minutes until tender and slightly caramelized.

2. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.

3. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken, season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder, and cook 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Transfer to a plate.

4. In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Stir in Cheddar and Havarti cheeses with a splash of pasta water, stirring until smooth and creamy.

5. Add pasta, roasted vegetables, and chicken to the skillet. Toss to coat, adding more pasta water as needed for a silky sauce. Season to taste.

6. Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or herbs if desired.

Notes

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of milk or water to maintain creaminess. Pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or garlic bread.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American