Creamy Lemon Garlic Bowtie Pasta with Chicken
Indulge in this Creamy Lemon Garlic Bowtie Pasta with Chicken a quick, one-skillet dinner bursting with zesty lemon, creamy Parmesan sauce, and tender chicken. Perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners!
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
This Bowtie Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is your new go-to comfort food silky, creamy, and packed with fresh citrus flavor. It’s simple to make, uses pantry staples, and comes together in just 40 minutes. The lemon brightens the rich cream sauce, while garlic and Parmesan add that classic Italian flair.
Top benefits:
High-protein, satisfying dinner
Creamy and zesty flavor balance
One-pan cleanup for easy cooking
Great for meal prep or family gatherings
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips
1 tsp salt and ⅛ tsp black pepper
1 tsp each of garlic powder and onion powder
1 tsp Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, and thyme)
2 tbsp olive oil
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
Zest and juice of 1 lemon (preferably unwaxed)
1 tbsp unsalted butter
For the Creamy Lemon Garlic Pasta:
8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
2 tbsp butter
½ cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best melt)
½ cup chicken broth
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add bowtie pasta and cook until al dente (about 10 minutes). Drain and reserve ½ cup of pasta water for later.
Pat chicken dry, then season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian herbs.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 6–7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same pan, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
Add lemon zest, juice, and 1 tbsp butter. Stir to coat the pan with fragrant lemon-garlic butter. Set chicken aside while making the sauce.
Add the remaining butter to the skillet, then pour in heavy cream and chicken broth.
Simmer for 2–3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens. Gradually whisk in Parmesan until smooth and creamy.
Return the pasta and chicken to the pan. Toss gently until every bowtie is coated in creamy lemon garlic sauce. Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed for consistency.
Plate the pasta, top with chopped parsley, and sprinkle with extra Parmesan. Serve warm for the ultimate cozy dinner!
Helpful Tips & Variations:
Make it lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
Cheese swap: Use Pecorino Romano or Grana Padano for a bolder taste.
Protein twist: Try shrimp or tofu for a pescatarian or vegetarian version.
Add veggies: Stir in spinach, peas, or steamed broccoli for extra nutrients.
What to Serve With Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Garlic bread or crispy baguette
Storage & Meal Prep
Let leftovers cool before storing in an airtight container. Keep refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Reheat in a skillet on low with a splash of milk or broth to restore creaminess. Avoid microwaving to keep the chicken tender.
Nutritional Benefits (Per Serving)
Calories: 540
Protein: 36g
Carbs: 39g
Fat: 24g
This balanced pasta dish offers protein for muscle repair, calcium from Parmesan, and vitamin C from fresh lemon a wholesome and delicious way to fuel your body.
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