Sally Winter
Imagine tender, juicy chicken seared to perfection, paired with a velvety cream sauce that hugs every bowtie of pasta. This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is the ultimate comfort food that feels gourmet but is easy enough to whip up on a weeknight. Each bite bursts with the tang of fresh lemon, the warmth of garlic, and the richness of creamy pasta.
This dish strikes the perfect balance between fresh, zesty flavors and cozy, hearty textures. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or entertaining guests, it’s guaranteed to impress and leave everyone reaching for seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
This recipe is perfect for anyone craving a restaurant-quality meal without leaving the house. The combination of tender chicken, creamy sauce, and tangy lemon creates a flavor profile that’s both refreshing and satisfying. Plus, it’s ready in under an hour, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
What Makes This Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta So Delicious?
The secret lies in its balance of flavors and textures. The golden-browned chicken adds a savory depth, while the fresh lemon and garlic bring brightness and aroma. The creamy sauce coats each bowtie pasta perfectly, creating a dish that’s both indulgent and vibrant.
Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
Every ingredient in this dish serves a purpose to build flavor and texture:
- Chicken breasts – The star protein that provides tenderness and a satisfying bite.
- Bowtie pasta (Farfalle) – Perfect for catching the creamy sauce in its folds.
- Garlic – Adds a fragrant, savory depth to the sauce.
- Lemon juice and zest – Infuses brightness and a tangy kick.
- Heavy cream – Creates the luscious, creamy base of the sauce.
- Butter – Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic to perfection.
- Olive oil – Ensures the chicken gets a perfect golden crust.
- Parmesan cheese – Brings salty, nutty flavor to the creamy sauce.
- Fresh parsley – Adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Salt and black pepper – Essential for seasoning every component.
How To Make the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
Step 1: Prepare and Cook the Chicken
Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet and sear the chicken until golden brown on both sides and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and let it rest before slicing.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
While the chicken cooks, boil the bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté the garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and lemon juice, then whisk in Parmesan cheese. Allow it to simmer gently until thickened.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Toss the cooked bowtie pasta in the creamy sauce, adding a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for extra silkiness.
Step 5: Serve with Chicken
Top the creamy pasta with sliced chicken and garnish with lemon zest and fresh parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Serving and Storing Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
This dish serves 4 people generously, making it perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. Serve it immediately while warm for the creamiest experience.
To store, let the pasta cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce.
What to Serve With Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta?
1. Garlic Bread
Crunchy and buttery, perfect for soaking up any leftover creamy sauce.
2. Side Salad
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.
3. Steamed Broccoli
Fresh, simple, and adds a nice crunch alongside the creamy dish.
4. Roasted Asparagus
Its slightly charred flavor pairs beautifully with the lemony chicken.
5. Sautéed Spinach
Quickly wilted spinach adds a nutritious and vibrant side.
6. Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil add a refreshing contrast.
7. Lemon Wedges
Enhance the citrus note by serving extra lemon on the side.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and more forgiving during cooking. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure they’re fully cooked.
2. How can I make this recipe lighter?
Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream, and consider adding extra steamed vegetables for a lighter dish.
3. Can I make this ahead of time?
You can cook the chicken and prepare the sauce ahead, but for the best texture, cook the pasta right before serving.
4. How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Keep the heat low when adding lemon juice to the cream and avoid boiling the sauce vigorously.
5. Can I freeze this pasta dish?
Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well as they tend to separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge for a few days.
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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you add extra vegetables or a touch of chili flakes? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own. Questions are always welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Pot for pasta
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts
- 12 oz bowtie pasta
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juice and zest
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Season chicken with salt and pepper. Sear in olive oil until golden and cooked through. Remove and slice.
- Cook pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic. Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and Parmesan; simmer until creamy.
- Toss pasta with sauce, adding reserved water as needed. Top with sliced chicken and parsley.