If you are searching for a dish that brings a burst of flavor and creamy comfort all in one plate, this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe is a must-try. Each tender bite of chicken is perfectly seasoned with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, while the luscious bowtie pasta swims in a dreamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a deliciously balanced meal that feels both indulgent and fresh, making it ideal for a cozy weeknight dinner or impressing friends at your next gathering. Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen too!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple yet pack a punch, working together to create incredible texture, vibrant colors, and unforgettable flavors in this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Bite-sized pieces ensure every forkful has tender chicken.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Adds richness and helps brown the chicken beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons butter: For that silky, indulgent touch in both chicken and sauce.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Essential for that irresistible garlicky aroma and depth.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the dish with fresh, zesty notes.
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest: Intensifies lemon flavor without adding acidity.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Adds a subtle smoky warmth and color.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional): Brings a pop of green and freshness as garnish.
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle): Perfectly shaped to catch the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Creates that luxuriously smooth and velvety sauce.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth without overpowering the delicate lemon and garlic.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for savory, cheesy goodness.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Enhances the sauce’s richness even further.
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional): Lifts the finished dish with herbaceous fragrance and color.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta to Perfection
Start by boiling a large pot of salted water—this step seasons the pasta from the start. Cook the bowtie pasta according to package directions until it’s al dente, meaning firm to the bite for the best texture. Once done, drain it well and set it aside while you prepare the chicken and sauce.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken Bites
Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. This combination helps achieve a golden color and irresistibly rich flavor. Season your bite-sized chicken with salt, pepper, and paprika. Cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pieces are browned on all sides and fully cooked through. The paprika adds a subtle smoky undertone just before mixing with the creamy sauce.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Lemon for Zesty Aroma
Next, toss in the minced garlic, fresh lemon juice, and lemon zest directly into the skillet with the chicken. Stir and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant. This step infuses the meat with that vibrant lemony garlic flavor that makes the recipe truly special. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce
Using the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter, followed by heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir the mixture and bring it up to a gentle simmer on medium heat. The combination of cream and broth creates a luscious base that carries all the flavors beautifully without being too heavy.
Step 5: Melt in Parmesan Cheese for Extra Richness
Slowly sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese while continuing to stir. This cheese melts into the sauce, thickening it and infusing every bite with a savory, umami punch. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the balance so the sauce complements both the pasta and chicken perfectly.
Step 6: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Add the cooked bowtie pasta back into the skillet and toss it gently to coat every piece in the creamy sauce. This step ensures each forkful delivers that signature creaminess that defines this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe.
Step 7: Return the Chicken and Finish
Finally, bring the zesty lemon garlic chicken bites back to the skillet and fold them into the creamy pasta mixture. Warm through for a minute or two so the flavors meld together seamlessly. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil if desired, and your dish is ready to steal the show.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley or basil on top not only brightens the visual appeal but also adds a fresh herbal note that balances the richness of the sauce splendidly. A light sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese can also elevate the creamy texture and flavor right at the table.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad featuring tangy vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for a bit of crunch and earthiness. A slice of crusty garlic bread is also fantastic for soaking up every last bit of the creamy lemon garlic sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this recipe family-style straight from the skillet for a cozy, inviting experience, or plate individual portions topped with the vibrant garnishes for a more elegant touch. For special occasions, edible flowers or microgreens add a surprising pop of color that makes your dining table sparkle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe keeps well when refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the leftovers just as delightful, if not more so, than the initial serving.
Freezing
While freezing creamy pasta dishes can sometimes change the texture, you can freeze portions of this recipe for up to 1 month. Store it in freezer-safe containers, and consider freezing the chicken separately for best results. Thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to avoid curdling the sauce. Adding a splash of cream or chicken broth while warming helps refresh the creamy texture and prevents dryness. Microwaving works too, but be sure to cover loosely and stir halfway through warming.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta works wonderfully because of its shape and texture, you can substitute with penne, fusilli, or even fettuccine. Just adjust cooking time accordingly to keep the pasta al dente.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s fantastic for meal prepping. You can cook the chicken and pasta ahead and combine them with the sauce just before serving to keep everything fresh and creamy.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can! Swap heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. Keep in mind the taste and texture will differ slightly but still be delicious.
What wine pairs best with this dish?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully, as their acidity complements the lemony brightness and cuts through the richness of the creamy sauce.
How can I add more veggies to this recipe?
Great idea! Simply toss in some baby spinach, cherry tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms when you add the cream sauce. They blend well without overwhelming the flavors.
Final Thoughts
Delighting in the vibrant zest of lemon, the warmth of garlic, and the comforting creaminess of this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe is truly an experience worth savoring. Giving this recipe a try will add a fresh, satisfying favorite to your dinner rotation. Once you taste how effortlessly everything comes together with fresh ingredients and simple steps, you might just find it hard to wait for the next time you make it!
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Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a quick and delicious dish combining tender bite-sized chicken pieces cooked with garlic, lemon zest, and paprika, all tossed with al dente bowtie pasta in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. This easy one-skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a bright citrus flavor balanced with creamy comfort.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
Pasta and Sauce
- 8 oz (225g) bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 1 tablespoon butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Chicken Bites: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
- Season and Cook Chicken: Season the chicken bites with salt, pepper, and paprika. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through.
- Add Garlic and Lemon: Add the minced garlic, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the skillet, and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same skillet, add butter, heavy cream, and chicken broth. Stir and bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Incorporate Parmesan Cheese: Add the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss Pasta in Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce, tossing to coat the pasta evenly.
- Combine Chicken and Pasta: Return the lemon garlic chicken bites to the skillet, mixing them into the pasta.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on the side.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creaminess.
- You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
- Adjust lemon juice and zest to your taste preference for more or less tang.
- For a healthier option, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- This dish can be prepared ahead; keep pasta and sauce separate before combining to maintain texture.
