Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

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When I first made this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta, I didn’t expect it to become such a frequent request at my dinner table. The tender, juicy chicken coated with a zesty lemon-garlic seasoning pairs so beautifully with the rich and velvety cream sauce that clings to every bowtie. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy enough for a special occasion but simple enough for a weeknight meal.

I love how this recipe strikes a perfect balance between freshness and comfort. The lemon keeps things bright and vibrant, while the creamy sauce wraps everything together in a cozy hug. Each bite is layered with flavors—garlic, herbs, a touch of spice, and that satisfying creaminess. It’s the kind of meal that makes you slow down, savor, and maybe even go back for seconds.

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

This dish is a keeper because it checks so many boxes: it’s quick to prepare, deeply flavorful, and versatile enough to adapt for different tastes. The chicken gets a golden sear that locks in the juices, the pasta becomes silky and luscious in the sauce, and the lemon garlic notes brighten everything up. Whether you’re feeding family, impressing friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe will never disappoint.

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What Kind of Chicken Works Best for Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta?

For this dish, I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Breasts stay lean and pair wonderfully with the creamy pasta, while thighs bring a little extra juiciness and flavor if you like something richer. The key is to cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and get that beautiful golden crust from the skillet.

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Options for Substitutions

One of the reasons I love this recipe is its flexibility. If you don’t have one ingredient on hand, it’s easy to swap:

• Protein: Swap chicken with shrimp, salmon, or even tofu for a lighter or vegetarian twist.
• Pasta: Bowtie pasta works beautifully, but penne, fettuccine, or rotini can hold the creamy sauce just as well.
• Dairy: If heavy cream feels too rich, you can use half-and-half or even a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream.
• Flavor Boosters: Add sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, or mushrooms for extra texture and color.
• Heat Factor: A pinch of chili flakes can give the pasta a subtle kick, or you can leave it mild for a family-friendly version.

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Ingredients for Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

• Chicken breast or thighs – the star protein, tender and juicy when seared properly.
• Bowtie pasta (farfalle) – the perfect shape to catch and hold the creamy sauce.
• Garlic – the foundation of the flavor, adding depth and aroma.
• Fresh lemon juice & zest – brightens the richness of the dish and balances the cream.
• Heavy cream – creates the luxurious, velvety base for the sauce.
• Parmesan cheese – adds saltiness, creaminess, and a nutty kick.
• Olive oil & butter – for cooking the chicken and layering flavors.
• Fresh parsley – for freshness and a pop of color in every bite.
• Salt & black pepper – simple seasonings to highlight the natural flavors.
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – for a gentle, spicy warmth.

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of lemon zest. Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet, then sear the chicken until golden brown on all sides. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

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Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining, then set the pasta aside.

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Step 3: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Allow the sauce to thicken slightly.

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Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked bowtie pasta into the skillet with the sauce, tossing well so every piece is coated. If needed, splash in some of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce and create that perfect silky texture.

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Step 5: Bring It All Together

Place the golden chicken pieces back on top of the pasta. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley and a pinch of red pepper flakes for brightness and a touch of heat. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.

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How Long to Cook Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

This recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. The chicken only needs about 6–8 minutes to cook through in the skillet, depending on the thickness of the pieces. The pasta usually takes 10–12 minutes to reach al dente, and the sauce thickens in just 5–7 minutes. Altogether, you’re looking at roughly 30 minutes from start to finish.

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Tips for Perfect Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

• Don’t overcook the chicken: Remove it from the skillet once it’s golden and just cooked through—this keeps it tender and juicy.
• Reserve pasta water: That starchy water is liquid gold for adjusting the sauce’s thickness and creaminess.
• Balance the lemon: Use zest and juice carefully. Too much lemon can overpower the creaminess, but the right amount makes the dish shine.
• Fresh Parmesan is key: Pre-grated cheese won’t melt as smoothly. Grating your own ensures a silky sauce.
• Finish with fresh herbs: A sprinkle of parsley or basil brightens up the dish and adds freshness right before serving.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the pasta: Bowtie pasta should be al dente; overcooked pasta won’t hold up well in the creamy sauce.
• Skipping the sear on the chicken: That golden crust locks in flavor—don’t rush this step.
• Adding lemon too early: Acid can curdle cream, so always stir in lemon juice at the end.
• Using cold cream: Room temperature cream blends more smoothly into the sauce.
• Overcrowding the skillet: Cook chicken in batches if needed so it browns properly instead of steaming.

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

Garlic Bread

Crispy, buttery, and perfect for soaking up any extra creamy sauce.

Roasted Vegetables

Carrots, zucchini, or asparagus roasted with olive oil and herbs add color and balance.

Fresh Green Salad

A light salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a lemon vinaigrette keeps the meal refreshing.

Steamed Broccoli

Simple and nutritious, broccoli pairs beautifully with the rich pasta.

Caprese Salad

Tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil bring a burst of freshness alongside the creamy dish.

Grilled Asparagus

A smoky, slightly charred flavor contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the pasta.

Crusty Artisan Bread

For those who love hearty bread, it’s another great option for mopping up the sauce.

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Storage Instructions

If you happen to have leftovers, this dish keeps well. Store the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk, cream, or even a little chicken broth to bring the sauce back to life, as it tends to thicken in the fridge. For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop rather than the microwave to prevent the cream from separating.

Freezing is possible, but keep in mind that creamy sauces don’t always thaw perfectly smooth. If you’d like to freeze, store the pasta and chicken separately from the sauce and recombine after reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: ~560
• Protein: 34g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Cholesterol: 115mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use pre-cooked chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use rotisserie or leftover chicken. Just add it toward the end to warm through so it doesn’t dry out.

2. What’s the best pasta alternative if I don’t have bowties?

Penne, fettuccine, or rotini all work well since they hold onto creamy sauces nicely.

3. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely! Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream, and swap Parmesan with a dairy-free cheese alternative.

4. How do I keep the sauce from curdling?

Add lemon juice at the very end, and make sure the cream isn’t boiling hard when you stir it in.

5. Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, it reheats well for up to three days. Just store the sauce separately if possible and add a splash of milk when reheating.

6. Can I lighten up the sauce?

You can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, or add a splash of chicken broth to stretch the sauce and make it less rich.

7. What herbs go well with this dish?

Parsley is classic, but basil, thyme, or oregano all pair beautifully with lemon and garlic flavors.

8. Can I make it spicy?

Definitely! A pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of chili oil will add a lovely heat without overpowering the creamy base.

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Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is one of those recipes that feels both comforting and elegant at the same time. The brightness of lemon, the depth of garlic, and the indulgent creaminess make it a dish that always impresses—whether it’s a casual family dinner or a meal to serve guests. It’s quick to make, adaptable to different tastes, and satisfying enough to stand on its own or pair with simple sides. Once you try it, it’s bound to become part of your regular meal rotation.

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