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

This recipe brings together the best of both worlds—tender, juicy chicken and creamy, flavorful pasta. The bright, fresh flavor of lemon adds a lightness to the rich cream sauce, making it feel indulgent yet not too heavy. The garlic infuses the dish with warmth, while the bowtie pasta creates a playful texture that enhances the overall experience. It’s a quick, simple, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts
8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
2 tablespoons olive oil
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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

Directions

Cook the bowtie pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
While the pasta is cooking, season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Add the lemon zest and lemon juice to the skillet, followed by the heavy cream. Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Slice the cooked chicken breasts and return them to the skillet. Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the sauce and toss to coat everything evenly.
Serve the dish topped with chopped parsley for a fresh, vibrant touch.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Add vegetables: You can add vegetables like spinach, peas, or broccoli to make the dish even more nutritious.
Swap pasta: If you prefer a different type of pasta, feel free to swap the bowtie pasta for spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.
Chicken substitute: For a variation, try using shrimp, turkey, or even grilled tofu as an alternative to chicken.
Dairy-free: To make this dish dairy-free, use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the dish in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts. They will add a bit more flavor due to their higher fat content.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and pasta ahead of time, then combine and finish the dish with the creamy sauce just before serving.

Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?

Yes, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce will be a little lighter and less creamy. For a richer result, heavy cream is recommended.

Can I freeze this dish?

It’s not ideal to freeze this dish because the cream sauce may separate when reheated. However, you can freeze the chicken and pasta separately and make a fresh sauce when you’re ready to serve.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

How do I prevent the cream sauce from separating?

To prevent the sauce from separating, avoid cooking it at too high a heat. Stir gently and allow it to simmer over medium-low heat to thicken without breaking.

Can I use jarred garlic instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, you can use jarred garlic, but fresh garlic will give the dish a more vibrant and robust flavor.

Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh lemon?

Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but you can use bottled lemon juice if needed. Just be sure to adjust the quantity to taste.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

Add some red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a bit of heat. You can also use spicy Italian sausage instead of chicken for an extra kick.

Can I add white wine to the sauce?

Yes, you can add a splash of white wine when cooking the garlic for an extra layer of flavor. Let it simmer for a minute before adding the cream.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a delightful, easy-to-make meal that’s packed with flavor and texture. The bright lemon and savory garlic pair perfectly with the rich cream sauce, while the tender chicken and bowtie pasta make for a satisfying dinner. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress. Enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory in every bite!

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

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Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a vibrant, flavorful dish featuring tender, juicy chicken breasts in a savory lemon garlic sauce, paired with creamy, perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is bursting with fresh flavors and is sure to please the whole family.

Author: Emily
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-searing, Simmering
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried thyme (optional). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest.
Make the lemon garlic sauce: In the same skillet, add butter and minced garlic. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and heavy cream. Stir to combine, then let the sauce simmer for 3-5 minutes until it thickens.
Combine pasta and sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy lemon garlic sauce. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Slice the chicken into thin strips and place on top of the creamy pasta. Garnish with fresh parsley.

Notes

For extra richness, add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to the sauce.
If you prefer a bit of heat, you can sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking the garlic.
You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version.