Name: Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American-Italian
Ingredients: 1.5 lbs chicken breast or thighs; 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, zested and juiced; 1 cup heavy cream; 3/4 cup grated parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper, to taste

Do you ever crave a dish that feels both indulgent and fresh? This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta delivers just that. The chicken is seared to golden perfection, infused with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, and then paired with tender bowtie pasta drenched in a silky, herb-laced cream sauce.

It’s the kind of meal that works for both a quick weeknight dinner and an impressive weekend gathering. The citrusy punch from the lemon brightens every bite, while the creamy pasta wraps everything in comfort. Let’s break down how to bring this flavor-packed dish to life.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

To get the most out of this recipe, having the right tools is key. A cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan ensures that your chicken gets a gorgeous sear and develops deep flavor. For the pasta, a large pot with a pasta strainer insert helps you cook and drain the bowtie pasta without losing a single piece.

You’ll also want a microplane zester for the lemon, a garlic press to get that punchy garlic aroma quickly, and a whisk for making a smooth cream sauce. Lastly, a wooden spoon or silicone spatula is perfect for stirring the sauce gently to avoid breaking the pasta or scorching the cream.

Ingredients for the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Chicken breast or thighs: The star of the plate, marinated with lemon and garlic to deliver juicy, flavorful bites.
Bowtie pasta (Farfalle): Its shape holds creamy sauces beautifully, making every mouthful rich and satisfying.
Fresh garlic: Delivers aromatic depth and savory sharpness.
Lemon zest and juice: Infuses the chicken with brightness and acidity to balance the creaminess.
Heavy cream: Forms the velvety base of the pasta sauce.
Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty saltiness and richness to the sauce.
Olive oil: Used for searing and bringing flavor to the marinade.
Butter: Helps create a silky finish in the sauce.
Fresh parsley: Lends a vibrant, herbaceous finish.
Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, for a hint of heat that cuts through the richness.

How To Make the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Marinate and Prep the Chicken

Start by cutting your chicken into bite-sized pieces. Marinate with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Let it rest for at least 15 minutes—or up to overnight for maximum flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain, but reserve about 1/2 cup of the starchy pasta water for the sauce later.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

Heat your skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil and sear the marinated chicken until golden brown and cooked through, about 4–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Cream Sauce

In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Melt butter and sauté more garlic until fragrant. Pour in the cream and whisk to combine. Stir in parmesan cheese and a splash of reserved pasta water to help emulsify the sauce.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Toss the cooked bowtie pasta into the cream sauce. Add the seared chicken back into the pan, along with lemon zest, parsley, and crushed red pepper if using. Stir gently until everything is coated and heated through.

Serving and Storing Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Serve this dish hot and fresh, garnished with extra parmesan and parsley if desired. A side of crusty bread makes the perfect companion for sopping up that creamy sauce.

For leftovers, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce. Avoid freezing as the cream sauce can separate.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of chicken works best for this recipe?

Both boneless skinless chicken breasts and thighs work well. Thighs tend to be juicier, while breasts give a leaner option.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely. Penne, rotini, or fettuccine are all good alternatives, but bowtie pasta holds creamy sauces particularly well.

What if I don’t have fresh lemons?

Bottled lemon juice will work in a pinch, but fresh lemon zest adds an unmatched brightness.

How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat moderate and stir constantly. Adding a bit of pasta water helps stabilize the sauce.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Skip the chicken and substitute with sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas.

Is there a dairy-free option?

You can try using coconut cream and a dairy-free parmesan substitute, but the flavor and texture will differ.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

You might also like the Delicious Beef Bowtie Pasta, which pairs creamy sauce with savory ground beef for a hearty variation. Or explore the spicy side with Spicy Rattlesnake Pasta, which balances heat with cream.

For baked twists, try the Buffalo Chicken Lasagna or creamy comfort of the Best Baked Cream Cheese Spaghetti.

Looking for more cozy meals? Don’t miss the Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup—a perfect starter to any creamy pasta dinner.

Pin and Tell Me How Yours Turned Out

You can save this to your dinner board for future cravings. Just hit the Pin button!

If you end up making it, I’d truly love to hear how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the lemon? Add mushrooms? Snap a pic and drop a comment below. I’m always inspired by your versions.

For even more creamy weeknight favorites and daily recipes, follow along on my Pinterest @LadyPlate.

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Author: Julia Koch
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Description

Bright, zesty, and rich, this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta combines tender chicken bites with farfalle pasta coated in a velvety parmesan cream sauce. It’s a comforting yet vibrant dish perfect for any night of the week.

Instructions

1. Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces. Marinate with olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Let it rest for 15 minutes or overnight.

2. Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and reserve 1/2 cup pasta water.

3. Heat a skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken until golden and fully cooked, about 4–6 minutes. Remove and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Sauté garlic until fragrant. Add cream, whisk gently, and stir in parmesan. Add pasta water to loosen sauce.

5. Add cooked pasta and chicken back to the pan. Stir in lemon zest, parsley, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Mix gently until heated through.