The Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe

My weekend cooking adventures with this zesty lemon garlic chicken create pure magic on the plate.

Succulent chicken pieces dance alongside silky bowtie pasta in a dreamy cream sauce that whispers comfort.

Fragrant garlic infuses every bite with incredible depth and richness.

The tangy lemon adds bright sparkling notes that cut through the creamy background perfectly.

Mediterranean-inspired ingredients merge into a simple yet sophisticated meal anyone can master quickly.

Home cooks craving restaurant-quality dishes will absolutely adore this straightforward recipe.

You’ll want to savor each delectable forkful and immediately plan your next cooking session.

Why Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta Is A Go-To

• Savor Flavor-Packed Delight: This recipe bursts with zesty lemon and rich garlic notes that dance across your taste buds, creating a perfectly balanced meal that feels like a restaurant-quality experience at home.
• Creamy Comfort Meets Ease: The luxurious sauce comes together in minutes, transforming simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy dish that's surprisingly stress-free to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknight dinners.
• Quick and Satisfying Protein Powerhouse: Tender chicken breasts cook quickly and pair beautifully with the creamy pasta, delivering a protein-rich meal that keeps you full and energized without spending hours in the kitchen.
• One-Skillet Wonder: Minimizing dishes while maximizing flavor, this recipe uses the same skillet for chicken and sauce, making cleanup a breeze and allowing home cooks to enjoy a gourmet meal without the complicated cleanup.

What’s In Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta

• Chicken Breasts: Succulent protein base for the dish, choose fresh, boneless, and skinless for best results. Well-seasoned chicken provides rich flavor and main protein component.

• Bowtie Pasta: Classic pasta shape that catches creamy sauce perfectly. Select high-quality durum wheat pasta for best texture.

• Heavy Cream, Parmesan Cheese: Creamy base that creates luxurious sauce texture. Choose freshly grated Parmesan for optimal melting and flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness and helps create smooth sauce consistency. Use unsalted butter for better control of dish's saltiness.

• Garlic Powder, Paprika, Salt, Pepper: Essential spices for chicken seasoning. Fresh, high-quality spices enhance overall dish flavor.
• Minced Garlic: Provides intense garlic flavor to sauce. Fresh garlic cloves offer more robust taste than pre-minced options.

• Lemon: Adds bright, fresh flavor to both chicken and sauce. Choose firm, heavy lemons with smooth skin for maximum juice.
• Lemon Zest: Intensifies citrus notes without adding extra liquid. Use fresh zest for most vibrant flavor.

• Parsley: Fresh herb that adds color and light herbaceous note. Flat-leaf parsley recommended for better taste.

• Olive Oil: Used for searing chicken, provides subtle flavor. Select extra virgin olive oil for best taste.

How To Make Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta Paradise

Grab a big pot and fill it with water, sprinkle in some salt for flavor. Let the water dance and bubble until it’s boiling wildly. Drop in the bowtie pasta and let it swim around until perfectly tender. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside, ready for its creamy destiny.

Step 2: Sizzle Chicken to Perfection

• Garlic powder
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper

Heat olive oil in a skillet until it shimmers. Gently place the seasoned chicken and let it sizzle. Cook each side until golden brown and fully cooked (the magical 165F/74C temperature). Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the chicken, then remove and let it rest.

Step 3: Craft Dreamy Cream Sauce

• Parmesan cheese
• Lemon zest

Keep stirring until the sauce becomes silky and slightly thickened.

Step 4: Marry Pasta with Sauce

Introduce the cooked pasta to the creamy sauce. Toss them together until every pasta piece is lovingly coated. Sprinkle in fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Taste and adjust seasonings to your heart’s content.

Step 5: Plate and Celebrate

Slice the chicken into beautiful strips and crown the creamy pasta. Sprinkle extra parsley for a final flourish. If you’re feeling fancy, add lemon wedges on the side. Your culinary masterpiece is ready to be devoured!

Simple Tips For Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta

• Pasta Perfection: Choose high-quality bowtie pasta for the best texture and ability to hold the creamy sauce effectively.
• Chicken Seasoning Hack: Pat chicken dry before seasoning to ensure a crispy, golden-brown exterior that locks in maximum flavor.
• Sauce Consistency Control: Keep the heat low when adding cream to prevent separation and achieve a smooth, silky sauce texture.
• Lemon Zest Magic: Grate fresh lemon zest directly into the sauce for an intense citrusy aroma that elevates the entire dish.
• Low-Carb Adaptation: Swap bowtie pasta with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb version of this delicious meal.

Store Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta Smartly

• Refrigerate: Store leftover chicken and pasta in separate airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days to maintain best quality and food safety.
• Freezing: Transfer cooled chicken and pasta to freezer-safe containers. Seal tightly and freeze for maximum 2 months. Creamy sauces might slightly separate when thawed, but will still taste delicious.
• Reheating Pasta: Warm pasta in microwave with a splash of extra cream or milk, stirring every 30 seconds until heated through. Alternatively, reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a bit of liquid to prevent drying.
• Reheating Chicken: Gently warm chicken in microwave or oven at 50% power to prevent overcooking. Add a tablespoon of chicken broth or water to keep meat moist and prevent toughening.

Tasty Pairings With Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta

• Zesty Wine Companion: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc perfectly complements the bright lemon notes and cuts through the creamy pasta's richness, creating a balanced and refreshing dining experience.
• Elevate with Salad Sidekick: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette and shaved Parmesan to echo the dish's citrusy and cheesy flavors, adding a fresh, peppery contrast.
• Bread Basket Buddy: Serve warm, garlic-rubbed focaccia or crusty Italian bread to soak up the delicious creamy sauce, providing a delightful textural element and extra flavor absorption.
• Herbal Beverage Boost: Prepare a sparkling water with fresh mint and lemon slices as a non-alcoholic option that cleanses the palate and mirrors the recipe's bright, zesty profile.

Twists You Can Try For Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta

• Spicy Mediterranean Remix: Transform the dish by adding red pepper flakes and oregano to the chicken seasoning. Replace Parmesan with crumbled feta cheese and incorporate diced sun-dried tomatoes into the creamy sauce for a Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile.
• Herb-Infused Wellness Bowl: Replace bowtie pasta with quinoa or brown rice for a healthier alternative. Season chicken with fresh thyme and rosemary, and mix chopped spinach into the sauce for added nutrients and vibrant green color.
• Creamy Seafood Edition: Swap chicken with seared shrimp or scallops for a luxurious seafood version. Add a splash of white wine to the sauce and garnish with fresh dill for an elegant coastal-inspired meal.
• Lighter Protein Swap: Use grilled chicken breast or baked turkey cutlets instead of pan-fried chicken. Reduce heavy cream by mixing it with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier sauce that maintains creamy texture while cutting calories.

Helpful Answers About Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta

• What makes the lemon garlic flavor so special in this dish?

The combination of fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, and roasted garlic creates a bright, tangy, and aromatic profile that elevates the entire chicken and pasta experience. The citrus cuts through the richness of the cream sauce while the garlic adds depth and warmth.

• Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs work great in this recipe. They’re often more tender and flavorful than chicken breasts. Just ensure they reach the same internal temperature of 165F/74C for food safety. The cooking time might be slightly different, so keep an eye on them while searing.

• Is this recipe considered a one-pan meal?

While the recipe uses the same skillet for multiple steps, it technically requires a separate pot for cooking pasta. However, the skillet method helps build layers of flavor by using the same pan for chicken, garlic, and sauce, which enhances the overall taste of the dish.

• How can I make this recipe lighter?

To reduce calories, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, use less Parmesan cheese, and opt for chicken breast tenderloins which are naturally leaner.

Lemon Garlic Chicken With Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe

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4.8 from 23 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent lemon garlic chicken dances with creamy bowtie pasta in this irresistible Mediterranean-inspired dish. Rich flavors and simple ingredients combine to deliver a comforting meal you’ll crave again and again.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Protein:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

Seasoning and Flavoring:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon

Pasta and Sauce Ingredients:

• 300 g (10 ounces) bowtie pasta
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
• ½ cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese
• Zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (plus extra for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the pasta vessel with generously salted water, bringing it to a rolling boil. Submerge bowtie pasta and cook until perfectly al dente, following package guidelines. Carefully drain the pasta, reserving a small amount of cooking liquid, and set aside.

1. Transform chicken breasts into flavor-packed medallions by generously coating with a zesty blend of spices. Warm olive oil in a spacious skillet over medium heat, creating a golden searing environment. Carefully place seasoned chicken into the pan, cooking until each side develops a rich, caramel-like crust and the interior reaches perfect doneness. Splash fresh lemon juice over the chicken, then transfer to a waiting plate.

1. Utilize the same skillet to craft a luxurious sauce. Melt butter until it shimmers, then introduce minced garlic, allowing its aromatic essence to permeate the kitchen. Pour in velvety heavy cream, creating a smooth base. Incorporate Parmesan cheese and bright lemon zest, whisking until the mixture transforms into a silky, slightly thickened sauce.

1. Introduce the cooked pasta to the creamy concoction, gently tossing to ensure each pasta bow is lavishly coated. Sprinkle in fresh parsley, providing a vibrant green contrast and herbal notes. Taste and refine the seasoning, adding salt and pepper as needed.

1. Artfully slice the chicken into elegant strips, arranging them atop the creamy pasta landscape. Garnish with additional parsley for a pop of color. For those desiring extra zing, present lemon wedges alongside the dish, inviting diners to customize their culinary experience.

Notes

• Pasta Selection: Choose high-quality bowtie pasta with ridges to help sauce cling better, ensuring maximum flavor in every bite.
• Salt Water Technique: Use generously salted boiling water to enhance pasta’s natural taste, creating a more robust foundation for the dish.
• Chicken Doneness: Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to guarantee perfectly cooked, juicy chicken without drying out.
• Lemon Zesting Trick: Grate lemon zest before squeezing juice to maximize citrus flavor and prevent losing essential aromatic oils.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and nutritional yeast for a lighter, plant-based version that maintains creamy texture.
• Quick Meal Prep: Slice chicken in advance and store separately to reduce overall cooking time during busy weeknights.
• Herb Freshness: Use freshly chopped parsley just before serving to preserve vibrant color and bright, crisp flavor profile.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 650
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 65 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Protein: 35 g
• Cholesterol: 150 mg