Julia Walton
Imagine tender, golden-brown chicken bites kissed with lemon and garlic, nestled on a bed of creamy bowtie pasta that melts in your mouth. This dish is comfort food at its finest, balancing zesty citrus, savory herbs, and rich cream sauce for a plate that feels both indulgent and refreshing. Every bite offers a contrast of textures—juicy, flavorful chicken paired with pasta coated in silky sauce.
Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or an impressive yet fuss-free meal for guests, Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta hits all the right notes. It’s a one-pan wonder in spirit, easy enough for a weeknight but elegant enough for a weekend gathering.
What Kind of Bowtie Pasta Should I Use?
Farfalle, or “bowtie” pasta, is ideal for this recipe because its shape captures the creamy sauce in every fold and edge. Opt for high-quality durum wheat pasta for the best texture. If you want to add a rustic touch, whole wheat or spinach-infused farfalle also works beautifully.
Ingredients for the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
- Chicken breast – Lean, tender, and a perfect canvas for lemon-garlic flavor.
- Olive oil – Enhances flavor and helps achieve a golden sear on the chicken.
- Garlic – Fresh cloves add an aromatic base and depth to the sauce.
- Lemon juice and zest – Provides brightness and balances the richness of the cream.
- Heavy cream – Creates the luxurious, velvety sauce.
- Parmesan cheese – Adds salty, nutty depth and helps thicken the sauce.
- Fresh parsley – Brings color and a fresh herbal note.
- Farfalle pasta – The star carb of the dish, holding sauce like a champ.
- Salt and pepper – Simple seasoning to enhance all the flavors.
How To Make the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
Pat chicken breasts dry and cut into bite-sized chunks. Season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of lemon zest for a burst of citrus flavor right from the start.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, cooking until golden brown on all sides and cooked through, about 5–6 minutes. Transfer to a plate and keep warm.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook farfalle pasta according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce heat to medium and add minced garlic. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream, lemon juice, and remaining zest. Allow to simmer gently for 3–4 minutes.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Pasta
Whisk in Parmesan cheese until the sauce thickens slightly. Add the cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything in the creamy sauce. If needed, use the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and an extra dusting of Parmesan. Serve hot for the ultimate comfort dish.
Serving and Storing Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
Serve this dish immediately while it’s hot and creamy for the best texture and flavor. If you’re serving a crowd, keep it warm in a covered skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally.
To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s silkiness. Freezing is not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate.
What to Serve With Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta?
1. Garlic Bread
Perfect for mopping up every drop of that luscious sauce.
2. Caesar Salad
A crisp, tangy salad balances the creamy pasta beautifully.
3. Roasted Asparagus
Adds a fresh, earthy touch and a vibrant green contrast.
4. Caprese Salad
Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil bring refreshing acidity and sweetness.
5. Sautéed Spinach
A quick, nutrient-packed side that complements the richness.
6. Steamed Broccoli
Simple and wholesome, with a natural sweetness.
7. Bruschetta
A light, toasty starter with tomato and basil that pairs well with pasta dishes.
Want More Pasta Ideas with a Twist?
If you love this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta, you’ll probably enjoy these other favorites:
• Creamy Velveeta Beef Bowtie Pasta for a cheesy, hearty delight.
• Cheesy Ranch Chicken Garlic Butter Fettuccine for bold flavors with a creamy ranch kick.
• Cajun Chicken and Sausage Pasta Skillet for a spicy, savory one-pan meal.
• Garlic Butter Chicken with Rigatoni and Parmesan for buttery, garlicky pasta perfection.
Save This Pin For Later
Save this delicious idea to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s easy to find when you’re ready to make it again.
Tried it with a twist? Maybe some sun-dried tomatoes or fresh basil? Share your version in the comments—I’d love to hear your ideas!
Need more inspiration? Explore my daily kitchen creations on SavorQueen Recipes on Pinterest. Your next favorite might be waiting there.
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
Equipment
- Large Skillet
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, juice and zest
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 12 ounces farfalle pasta
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Pat chicken dry, season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of lemon zest.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, sear chicken until golden and cooked through (5–6 minutes). Remove and keep warm.
- Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente, reserve 1/2 cup pasta water, then drain.
- In the same skillet, sauté garlic for 1 minute, add heavy cream, lemon juice, and zest. Simmer 3–4 minutes.
- Stir in Parmesan until sauce thickens, then add pasta and chicken, tossing to coat. Use pasta water to adjust consistency.
- Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan, serve hot.