Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Why You’ll Love Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe

This dish offers a perfect balance of creamy, zesty, and savory flavors. The lemon brings a fresh, tangy contrast to the rich, garlic-infused cream sauce, while the bowtie pasta adds a satisfying texture and holds onto the sauce beautifully. The seared chicken adds a hearty protein boost, and the entire dish comes together in under an hour with minimal prep work. It’s comfort food with a touch of elegance.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts

• Bowtie (farfalle) pasta

• Olive oil

• Garlic cloves

• Lemon juice

• Lemon zest

• Heavy cream

• Grated Parmesan cheese

• Chicken broth

• Salt

• Black pepper

• Italian seasoning

• Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

2. Season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.

3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

5. Pour in chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Add lemon juice, zest, and heavy cream. Stir to combine and simmer for 3-4 minutes.

6. Stir in Parmesan cheese and let the sauce thicken slightly.

7. Slice the cooked chicken and return it to the skillet.

8. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until well coated in the sauce.

9. Garnish with chopped parsley and additional Parmesan if desired.

10. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4 people.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: Stir in spinach, cherry tomatoes, or steamed broccoli for extra nutrition and color.

• Use a different protein: Swap the chicken with shrimp or turkey cutlets for a variation in flavor.

• Make it spicier: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.

• Go dairy-free: Use coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative to make this recipe suitable for lactose-intolerant diets.

• Try different pasta: Penne, rigatoni, or fettuccine work well if you don’t have bowtie pasta.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.
Avoid microwaving for too long, as it may dry out the chicken and separate the cream sauce.

FAQs

How can I tell when the chicken is fully cooked?

Chicken is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The juices should also run clear when the chicken is cut.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?

Yes, bottled lemon juice can be used, but fresh lemon juice gives a brighter and more vibrant flavor.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The creamy sauce and mild flavors make it appealing to kids. You can reduce or omit lemon zest if they prefer milder citrus notes.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can cook the chicken and pasta ahead of time and refrigerate separately. Reheat with the sauce just before serving.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

Half-and-half or a combination of milk and cream cheese can be used, though the sauce may be slightly less rich.

Is it okay to use pre-grated Parmesan?

Yes, but freshly grated Parmesan melts better and gives a smoother texture to the sauce.

How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

Use low to medium heat when adding cream, and avoid boiling the sauce. Stir continuously to help the ingredients blend smoothly.

Can I freeze this dish?

Freezing is not recommended as cream sauces tend to separate when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage.

What type of chicken is best for this recipe?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work well, but you can also use thighs for a juicier result.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply use gluten-free pasta and ensure your chicken broth and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is the kind of dish that turns a simple dinner into something special. With its rich, zesty sauce and tender chicken, it’s a flavorful and comforting meal that everyone at the table will enjoy. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this easy pasta dish is sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.