If you’ve ever craved a cozy, comforting dinner that feels like a warm hug in every bite, you’re going to fall in love with this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe. It perfectly balances bright, zesty lemon and garlicky goodness with tender chicken and silky, cheesy bowtie pasta. Every element comes together effortlessly to create a dish that’s both satisfying and elegantly simple — ideal for weeknight meals or when you want to impress without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of straightforward, fresh ingredients is all it takes to bring this recipe to life. Each component plays a vital role, whether it’s the juicy chicken providing protein, the bowtie pasta adding delightful texture, or the lemon and garlic infusing the dish with vibrant flavor and aroma.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed: Choose fresh, boneless chicken to keep the dish lean and tender.
- 8 oz bowtie pasta: The playful shape catches sauce wonderfully for every luscious forkful.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a flavor powerhouse that adds warmth and depth.
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced: Lemon zest and juice brighten the creamy sauce with a fresh kick.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This is the base for the rich, velvety sauce that coats everything.
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese: Parmesan adds the perfect salty, nutty finish to the creaminess.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Butter enriches the sauce and helps with searing the chicken beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Olive oil keeps the chicken moist and adds a subtle fruity note.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend to season the chicken and bring herbaceous notes.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional): Adds a splash of color and a fresh herb flavor to finish the dish.
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a gentle spicy lift.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all flavors perfectly.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by seasoning your cubed chicken breast generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This simple step infuses the chicken with herbs and spices, setting the foundation for flavor. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken until it’s golden brown and cooked all the way through, giving it that irresistible savory crust. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside to rest while you build the sauce.
Step 2: Cook the Bowtie Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente — tender but still with a slight bite. This texture is key to complementing the creamy sauce without becoming mushy. Drain the pasta, reserving about ¼ cup of the pasta water to help thin the sauce if needed later on.
Step 3: Build the Lemon Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet you used for the chicken, melt a bit more butter and sauté the minced garlic until it’s fragrant and golden—this aroma will fill your kitchen and have your mouth watering in no time. Stir in the lemon zest and juice, letting the bright citrus flavor come alive. Then, pour in the heavy cream and gently bring it to a simmer. Finally, stir in the parmesan cheese until the sauce is silky smooth and beautifully thickened.
Step 4: Combine Pasta and Chicken with Sauce
Add the cooked bowtie pasta directly into the sauce, tossing to coat every piece in luscious creaminess. Use the reserved pasta water little by little if the sauce needs loosening — this trick keeps the texture perfect and the sauce clinging just right. Return the tender seared chicken back to the skillet and stir everything together so the flavors mingle and meld seamlessly.
Step 5: Final Touches and Serve
Finish by sprinkling chopped fresh parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a subtle heat boost. This last step creates a wonderful contrast visually and flavor-wise, elevating the dish into something very special and irresistible.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly chopped parsley is a classic and refreshing garnish that brightens the rich creamy sauce. If you enjoy a little spice, sprinkling red pepper flakes adds just the right touch of warmth without overpowering the lemon garlic balance.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or green beans also complement nicely, adding crunch and vibrant color to your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special dinner, serve the pasta in shallow bowls with an extra wedge of lemon on the side. Drizzle a little extra olive oil or a sprinkle of parmesan over the top for that restaurant-quality look. You can even add sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes to the sauce for a twist that introduces new textures and a hint of earthiness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Allow your Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a perfect option for quick lunches or dinners during your busy week.
Freezing
Freezing creamy pasta dishes can be tricky, but it’s possible! Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 1 month. Keep in mind the texture of cream sauces might slightly change upon thawing, so it’s best enjoyed within that time frame.
Reheating
When you’re ready to eat your leftovers, reheat gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and stir frequently for an evenly heated, luscious result.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will add extra juiciness and a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly to ensure they are fully cooked through.
Is it necessary to use heavy cream?
Heavy cream creates the signature rich and creamy sauce in this recipe. If you prefer a lighter version, you can try substituting with half-and-half, but the sauce may not be as thick and velvety.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Use gluten-free bowtie pasta or swap for another gluten-free pasta shape you love. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
How can I add more vegetables to this dish?
Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes stirred in with the sauce are excellent additions that boost flavor and nutrition without complicating the recipe.
What’s the best way to prevent the chicken from drying out?
Cutting the chicken into uniform cubes helps them cook evenly. Also, don’t overcook the chicken during searing; once it turns golden and opaque, it’s ready to be removed and set aside.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe is a beautiful blend of flavors and textures that feels both luxurious and approachable. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s one of those dishes that satisfies on every level. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a new favorite in your meal rotation!
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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
Description
This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a quick and flavorful one-pan recipe that combines tender, seasoned chicken with a luscious lemon-infused garlic cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked bowtie pasta. Ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish balances citrus brightness with rich parmesan and aromatic herbs.
Ingredients
Chicken
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 8 oz bowtie pasta
Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, zested and juiced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Season the chicken: In a bowl, season the cubed chicken breast evenly with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to infuse flavor before cooking.
- Sear the chicken: Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken cubes and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the bowtie pasta until al dente according to package instructions, typically 8-10 minutes. Drain the pasta, reserving ¼ cup of the pasta cooking water for the sauce.
- Sauté garlic and add lemon: In the same skillet used for the chicken, add additional butter if needed. Sauté the minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the lemon zest and lemon juice to brighten the sauce.
- Make the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Gradually stir in the grated parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Toss pasta in sauce: Add the cooked bowtie pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce needs loosening for better coating.
- Combine chicken and pasta: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir gently to coat everything evenly in the flavorful lemon garlic cream sauce.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley and red pepper flakes, if using, for a touch of freshness and mild heat. Serve immediately while hot for the best taste experience.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Adding red pepper flakes is optional but provides a nice subtle heat.
- Fresh parsley adds a vibrant color and fresh taste but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Reserve pasta water carefully as it helps loosen the sauce without thinning the flavor.
- Do not overcook the chicken to keep it tender and juicy.
