If you’re looking for the ultimate weeknight comfort food with a bright, zesty twist, Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is about to become your new obsession. This dish brings together tender chicken, perfectly cooked farfalle, and a luscious lemon-garlic cream sauce that kisses every bite with freshness. It’s a crowd-pleaser, a family favorite, and a dinner that feels indulgent yet refreshingly light at the same time. Trust me, once you taste the burst of lemon, the savory garlic, and that silky Parmesan sauce all swirled around those cute bowtie noodles, you’ll understand exactly why I keep coming back to this recipe.

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts about Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is just how approachable the ingredient list is. Every component plays a special role in making the dish creamy, tangy, aromatic, and ultimately unforgettable. Get your fresh lemon and Parmesan ready—these ingredients truly shine!

Chicken breasts: Slice them thin so they cook quickly and soak up all those savory flavors.
Olive oil: Adds richness and helps get that gorgeous golden sear on your chicken.
Garlic: The aromatic backbone—use fresh and mince it finely for the best flavor.
Lemon zest: Don’t skip this! It adds a layer of bright, fragrant citrus that pops in every bite.
Lemon juice: Freshly squeezed takes the cream sauce to a whole new level of tangy goodness.
Salt and black pepper: Simple but essential; season both your chicken and your sauce to taste.
Bowtie pasta (farfalle): Holds onto the sauce beautifully, making every forkful creamy and satisfying.
Butter: Adds depth and a touch of indulgence to the sauce base.
All-purpose flour: Just a little to make a quick roux and thicken that dreamy sauce.
Heavy cream: Delivers that unmistakable silky smoothness—we’re going full-on comfort here!
Parmesan cheese: Grated fresh, it melts right in and makes the sauce gloriously savory.
Italian seasoning: Brings a gentle blend of herbs for background warmth.
Chopped parsley (optional): Adds a pop of green and fresh herbal finish—highly recommended for visual (and tasty!) appeal.

How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Start by bringing a big pot of salted water to a boil and add your farfalle. Cook until al dente (follow package instructions) to give the perfect bite. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside—you’ll want it on standby to catch all that luscious creamy sauce later.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your thinly sliced chicken breasts and sprinkle them generously with salt and pepper. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until golden, juicy, and fully cooked. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and keep it warm—you’ll add it back to the skillet soon for even more flavor absorption.

Step 3: Build the Garlic-Lemon Base

In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the minced garlic. Stir for 1 to 2 minutes, just until you get that irresistible fragrance—don’t let it brown. This step is where Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta really starts to come to life!

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

Sprinkle the flour over your buttery garlic and give it a quick whisk for one minute. This forms a simple roux, which thickens the sauce so it hugs each bowtie. Gradually pour in the heavy cream, whisking constantly to get rid of any lumps. Stir in Parmesan, lemon zest, lemon juice, and Italian seasoning. Let it simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, until the sauce thickens up and gets glossy and rich.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Add the seared chicken and drained pasta back to the skillet. Toss everything gently, making sure those noodles and chicken pieces are evenly coated with the creamy lemon garlic sauce. Let it cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, just until everything is heated through and gloriously steamy. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or extra lemon if you love more zing.

How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Garnishes

When it comes to finishing touches, a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds brightness and a flash of color that makes Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta restaurant-worthy. If you’re feeling extra, a little extra grated Parmesan never hurt anybody!

Side Dishes

This pasta is fabulous as a star all on its own, but you can round out the meal with a crisp green salad tossed in vinaigrette or a side of roasted veggies like asparagus or broccolini. Crusty garlic bread is practically a requirement for sopping up any of that leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

To take your presentation up a notch, serve the pasta in wide shallow bowls and arrange the chicken slices artfully on top. A wedge of lemon on the side lets guests add an extra squeeze, and a twirl of pasta on each plate makes the meal feel straight out of a trattoria.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftovers cool completely before transferring Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta to an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a lifesaver for busy lunches and quick reheats!

Freezing

While you can freeze this dish, keep in mind the cream sauce may separate just a little when thawed. For the best results, freeze portions flat in freezer bags or containers, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To warm up, add a splash of milk or cream to your skillet or microwave-safe dish to revive the sauce as it heats. Stir gently over medium-low heat (if using the stove), and your Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta will taste just as silky and savory as when you first made it.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs offer even more flavor and stay deliciously juicy. Just slice them thin as you would the breasts for even cooking.

Is half-and-half a good substitute for heavy cream?

Yes, half-and-half works if you’re looking for a lighter sauce. The sauce will be a touch less rich, but still creamy and satisfying.

What other pasta shapes can I use?

Bowtie is fun and traditional for this recipe, but penne, rotini, or even fettuccine hold the sauce well if that’s what you have on hand.

Can I add vegetables to the pasta?

Definitely! Stir in baby spinach, peas, or even steamed broccoli when you toss everything together for an extra pop of color and nutrition.

How can I make this gluten free?

Just swap in your favorite gluten-free bowtie pasta and use a 1-for-1 gluten-free flour blend in the sauce. Everything else in Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is naturally gluten-free!

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a dish that brings creamy comfort and zesty freshness to your dinner table, there’s nothing quite like Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta. Gather your loved ones, give it a try, and I know you’ll have everyone reaching for seconds—and the recipe!