Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

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Imagine a dish that brings together the zesty brightness of lemon, the savory warmth of garlic, and the irresistible creaminess of a pasta sauce that hugs every twist of bowtie pasta. Now add golden seared chicken to the mix, and you’ve got a dinner that feels both indulgent and refreshing. Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a vibrant and cozy recipe that manages to strike the perfect balance between elegance and comfort.

Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight meal or impressing guests with something easy but elevated, this dish delivers. The lemon cuts through the richness of the cream, while the garlic intensifies the flavor of the chicken and the velvety sauce. And bowtie pasta? It catches every drop of that creamy goodness in its nooks and folds, making each bite wonderfully satisfying.

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

This dish is a weeknight favorite for good reason. It’s fast to make, full of bold yet balanced flavors, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The brightness of lemon pairs so naturally with garlic and cream that it feels like a restaurant-style meal with the simplicity of home cooking. Plus, it uses basic pantry ingredients that transform into something memorable with just a bit of love and heat.

What Kind of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless skinless chicken breasts work perfectly here. They cook quickly, slice beautifully, and soak up all the lemon-garlic flavor as they simmer in the creamy sauce. If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs will give a slightly richer flavor and work just as well. Just make sure your chicken is sliced thin or pounded to even thickness to ensure a quick and even sear.

Ingredients for the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

What makes this pasta dish so crave-worthy is the harmony of just a few key ingredients. Each one brings its own character to the dish, whether it’s the brightness from citrus, the comforting starch of pasta, or the richness of cream. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Chicken breasts: Sliced thinly, they provide a lean and tender base that soaks up the garlic lemon sauce.
• Bowtie pasta (farfalle): These pasta shapes are perfect for trapping creamy sauce in every bite.
• Heavy cream: Adds richness and body to the sauce, making it irresistibly smooth.
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic infuses the sauce and chicken with deep, aromatic flavor.
• Lemon juice and zest: These brighten the dish and give it a refreshing tang that balances the creaminess.
• Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for added umami and a salty finish.
• Butter: Used to sear the chicken and start the sauce with extra depth.
• Olive oil: Helps the chicken brown evenly without sticking.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors to life.
• Fresh parsley (optional): A pop of green for garnish and a fresh herby finish.

How To Make the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Season the sliced chicken breasts with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and sear until golden on both sides and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic

In the same skillet, add more butter if needed and toss in the minced garlic. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, scraping up any brown bits from the chicken.

Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for 3 to 4 minutes. Add lemon juice, lemon zest, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until smooth and thickened slightly.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta and seared chicken back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the lemon garlic cream sauce. Let it all heat together for a minute or two.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired and serve warm. Enjoy the silky, zesty, garlicky magic in every bite.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

One of the easiest ways to lose the magic of this dish is by overcooking the chicken. Since chicken breasts cook quickly, especially when sliced thin, be sure to remove them from the pan once they are golden and just cooked through. Letting them rest while you make the sauce will keep them juicy.

Another common mistake is curdling the cream. Avoid boiling the sauce vigorously once the lemon juice is added. Let it simmer gently and stir constantly for a silky texture. Adding the lemon zest before the cream has thickened can also throw off the balance, so be sure to follow the order of steps carefully.

Lastly, don’t skimp on seasoning the pasta water. It’s your only chance to infuse the pasta itself with flavor, and a well-salted base makes the finished dish sing.

Serving and Storing Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

This dish is best served fresh when the sauce is creamy and the pasta still has a little bite. It feeds about 4 hungry people generously. If you’re planning for leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and restore its velvety texture.

What to Serve With Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta?

Garlic Bread

Classic and irresistible, a crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce on your plate.

Steamed Broccoli

Its mild flavor and crunch pair well with the creamy pasta, adding some balance and green to your plate.

Caesar Salad

The briny, crisp bite of Caesar dressing and romaine cuts through the richness of the pasta beautifully.

Roasted Asparagus

Lightly charred asparagus spears bring a slight bitterness that contrasts nicely with the lemony cream sauce.

White Wine

A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs wonderfully with the citrusy flavors in the dish.

Tomato Cucumber Salad

Fresh and juicy, this adds a cooling, acidic counterpoint to the creamy pasta.

Parmesan Zucchini Rounds

Thinly sliced zucchini roasted with Parmesan adds a savory crunch that complements the soft pasta.

Lemon Bars

If you’re looking to stay in the citrus lane, finish your meal with a tangy dessert that mirrors the dish’s bright notes.

Want More Chicken Pasta Ideas?

If this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta won your heart, wait until you try these other comforting favorites from my kitchen:

• Creamy Garlic Chicken Breasts for an ultra-smooth sauce that clings to every bite.
• Marry Me Chicken Pasta when you want something dreamy and decadent.
• One Pot Creamy Beef and Garlic Butter Pasta for a cozy beef variation that’s equally satisfying.
• Creamy Crockpot Chicken Spaghetti for a hands-off dinner that tastes like a hug.
• Garlic Butter Steak Bites with Creamy Alfredo Tortellini when you’re craving something indulgent with a twist.

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Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is more than just a quick dinner idea—it’s a flavor-forward, feel-good meal that tastes like something you’d order at your favorite restaurant. Bright lemon and bold garlic balance a rich, creamy sauce that hugs every noodle. It’s as satisfying as it is simple, and once you try it, it might just earn a permanent spot in your weeknight dinner rotation.

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