Bow Ties With Chicken and Asiago Cheese Sauce: A Culinary Embrace

I’ll never forget the first time I tasted a dish similar to this. It was at a small, family-run trattoria tucked away on a cobblestone street during my culinary tour of Italy. The aroma of simmering garlic, the rich, creamy sauce clinging to perfectly al dente pasta, and the savory bite of chicken – it was an experience that awakened my senses and forever shaped my love for Italian cuisine. Every time I make this Bow Ties with Chicken and Asiago Cheese Sauce, it transports me back to that tiny restaurant, a reminder of the simple joys of good food and good company.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 12 ounces evaporated milk (low fat or regular)
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup shredded Asiago cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lb bow tie pasta

Equipment Needed

• Medium saucepan
• Large skillet (preferably non-stick)
• Large pot
• Colander

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the Asiago cheese sauce. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the all-purpose flour to the melted butter and stir constantly until just combined. This creates a roux, which will thicken your sauce.
3. Gradually add the evaporated milk, milk, and chicken broth to the saucepan.
4. Cook, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and begins to gently simmer. Be patient; this may take a few minutes.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat and add the shredded Asiago cheese.
6. Stir gently until the Asiago cheese melts smoothly into the sauce, creating a velvety texture. Set the sauce aside.
7. Next, prepare the chicken. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet, preferably non-stick, over medium heat.
8. Add the cubed boneless chicken breast, chopped fresh parsley, and minced garlic to the skillet.
9. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the chicken is opaque and cooked through, approximately 8 to 10 minutes. Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
10. Add the prepared Asiago sauce to the skillet with the cooked chicken.
11. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine the chicken and sauce thoroughly.
12. While the chicken is cooking, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
13. Add the bow tie pasta to the boiling water and cook until tender but not mushy, or al dente, according to package directions. Usually around 8-10 minutes.
14. Once the bow tie pasta is cooked, drain it well in a colander.
15. Return the drained pasta to the pot and add the chicken and Asiago sauce mixture.
16. Toss gently to combine, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the sauce.
17. Serve the Bow Ties with Chicken and Asiago Cheese Sauce immediately. You can sprinkle additional grated Asiago cheese on top for an extra cheesy flavor, if desired.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Preventing a Lumpy Sauce: Whisk the flour into the melted butter continuously to avoid lumps forming. Add the liquids gradually, whisking constantly, to maintain a smooth sauce. If lumps do form, you can use an immersion blender to smooth it out.
• Chicken Cooking: Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking the chicken. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning and proper cooking. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of searing.
• Cheese Selection: While Asiago cheese provides a unique nutty flavor, you can experiment with other cheeses like Parmesan or a blend of Italian cheeses. Use a good quality, freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
• Make-Ahead Tip: The Asiago sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Gently reheat it over low heat, stirring occasionally, before adding it to the chicken and pasta.
• Enhance the Flavors: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick of heat. Sauté some sliced mushrooms or spinach with the chicken for added nutrients and flavor.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this Bow Ties with Chicken and Asiago Cheese Sauce immediately for the best taste and texture. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra grated Asiago cheese for an elegant presentation. A side of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much. Freezing is not recommended as the sauce may separate upon thawing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	577 kcal	–
Calories from Fat	194 g	34%
Total Fat	21.6 g	33%
Saturated Fat	8.7 g	43%
Cholesterol	141.7 mg	47%
Sodium	393.3 mg	16%
Total Carbohydrate	63.1 g	21%
Dietary Fiber	2.6 g	10%
Sugars	1.5 g	5%
Protein	31.6 g	63%

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend and use gluten-free bow tie pasta.
• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, and bell peppers for a vegetarian version.
• Lower Fat: Use low-fat evaporated milk and skim milk to reduce the fat content of the sauce.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicier dish.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, oregano, or basil in addition to or instead of parsley.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a different type of cheese instead of Asiago?
A: Yes, you can substitute Asiago cheese with Parmesan, Romano, or a blend of Italian cheeses. Keep in mind that the flavor profile will change depending on the cheese you choose.

Q: How can I prevent the sauce from being too thick?
A: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more milk or chicken broth to thin it out to your desired consistency.

Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes would be great additions to this dish.

Q: Can I use pre-shredded cheese?
A: While you can use pre-shredded cheese, freshly grated Asiago cheese will melt more smoothly into the sauce and provide a better flavor.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
A: The chicken is fully cooked when it is opaque throughout and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy.

Final Thoughts

This Bow Ties with Chicken and Asiago Cheese Sauce is a dish that brings comfort and elegance to the table. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a special occasion, or simply a cozy meal to enjoy with loved ones. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cheeses, vegetables, and herbs to create your own unique twist on this classic recipe. I encourage you to try it out and share your creations and feedback! Pair it with a crisp, dry white wine for a truly unforgettable culinary experience. Buon appetito!