Name: Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 12 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle); 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 lemon, juiced and zested; 1 cup heavy cream; ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tbsp butter; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; 1 tsp salt; ½ tsp black pepper; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); ½ cup reserved pasta water (as needed)

The very first time I made this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta, I didn’t expect it to become such a regular in my weeknight rotation—but it did. There’s something incredibly comforting about the creamy, cheesy bowtie pasta paired with juicy, golden-brown chicken chunks marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs. The zesty kick of lemon cuts through the richness, while the garlic and butter bring warmth and depth. It’s fast, satisfying, and absolutely packed with flavor.

I love how this dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and fresh. It looks like something you’d order at a restaurant, but it’s simple enough to throw together after a long day. Whether you’re cooking for family, guests, or just yourself (with plenty left for leftovers), this is one of those meals that never fails to impress. And that creamy pasta? Let’s just say there’s a good chance you’ll want to eat it straight out of the pan.

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

It’s a complete meal – Protein, carbs, and bold flavor all on one plate.
Easy to make – Simple steps and minimal fuss.
Perfectly balanced – Rich creamy pasta meets bright lemony chicken.
Meal prep friendly – Stores well and tastes just as good the next day.
Family-approved – Even picky eaters will be asking for seconds.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for Lemon Garlic Chicken?

I’ve tried this with several types of pasta, but bowtie (farfalle) truly holds up the best. Its ruffled edges and compact shape catch the creamy sauce in just the right way, giving you that perfect bite every time. But if you’re out of bowtie pasta, penne, rotini, or even fettuccine will do the trick. The key is using a pasta that has some texture to grab onto the sauce and doesn’t turn mushy during cooking.

As for the chicken, I prefer boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Thighs give you juicier, richer flavor, but breasts cook a little quicker and stay lean. Either one works beautifully in this recipe—it all comes down to your preference or what’s already in your fridge.

Options for Substitutions

Pasta: Swap bowtie for penne, rotini, or rigatoni if needed.
Chicken: Use shrimp for a lighter, seafood version or tofu for a vegetarian twist.
Cream: You can use half-and-half or full-fat coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.
Cheese: Parmesan is classic, but asiago or pecorino romano add great flavor.
Butter: Olive oil works fine if you’re trying to cut down on dairy.
Fresh Herbs: No parsley? Try basil, thyme, or even chives.
Spice: Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat—optional but highly recommended!

Ingredients for This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs
The star of the dish—tender chunks of chicken seared until golden, infused with lemon and garlic for bold flavor.

Bowtie (Farfalle) Pasta
This pasta shape is perfect for catching the creamy sauce in its ridges and folds, making each bite satisfying.

Fresh Garlic
Adds depth and warmth to both the chicken and the sauce. Minced finely to release its full aromatic power.

Lemon Juice and Zest
Brings brightness and acidity to balance out the richness of the cream and butter.

Heavy Cream
The foundation of that dreamy, velvety sauce that coats every piece of pasta.

Parmesan Cheese (Freshly Grated)
Melted into the sauce for salty, nutty depth and a gooey texture that pulls everything together.

Butter
Used for cooking the garlic and finishing the sauce—it enriches everything it touches.

Olive Oil
Helps get that beautiful sear on the chicken and keeps it moist during cooking.

Fresh Parsley
Adds a fresh herbal note and a pop of color at the end.

Salt and Pepper
The essentials for seasoning the chicken and pasta just right.

Red Pepper Flakes (Optional)
For a subtle heat that elevates the creamy sauce without overpowering it.

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

Cut the chicken into bite-sized chunks and toss with lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Let it sit for at least 15–30 minutes (or up to a few hours in the fridge) so the flavors can really sink in.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente, according to package directions. Drain and set aside, reserving about ½ cup of pasta water.

Step 3: Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil and a bit of butter over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Sear for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and cover to keep warm.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant—about 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in lemon zest, grated Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Add a splash of pasta water if it’s too thick.

Step 5: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce, tossing well to coat every piece. Let it simmer for a minute to soak in the flavor.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Return the seared chicken to the pan or plate it over the creamy pasta. Sprinkle with fresh parsley and more red pepper flakes if you like. Serve immediately while everything is hot and glossy.

How Long to Cook the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

This entire dish comes together in about 30 to 35 minutes:

Marinating the chicken: 15 to 30 minutes (can be done ahead of time)
Cooking the pasta: 10 minutes
Searing the chicken: 6 to 8 minutes
Making the sauce and finishing: 5 to 7 minutes

If you prep while the chicken marinates, this can be a fast weeknight dinner in just about 30 minutes total.

Tips for Perfect Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Don’t overcook the pasta – Keep it al dente so it doesn’t turn mushy when mixed with the sauce.
Use freshly grated Parmesan – Pre-shredded cheese can clump and won’t melt as smoothly.
Deglaze with a splash of pasta water – Helps loosen any flavorful bits stuck to the pan and adds silkiness to the sauce.
Don’t skip the zest – Lemon zest gives a bright citrus flavor without making the sauce watery.
Sear the chicken in batches if needed – Crowding the pan will steam it instead of giving you that golden crust.
Taste and adjust seasoning – The balance between lemon, garlic, salt, and cheese makes all the difference.
Warm the cream slightly before adding – This helps avoid curdling when it hits the hot pan.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Overcrowding the pan when searing the chicken: This leads to steaming instead of getting that nice golden crust. Cook in batches if needed.
Using cold cream straight from the fridge: Cold dairy can curdle when it hits a hot pan—let it sit at room temp for a few minutes before adding.
Forgetting to reserve pasta water: A splash of starchy pasta water can transform your sauce from clumpy to silky smooth.
Undersalting the pasta water: The pasta absorbs seasoning while it cooks, so start strong.
Adding cheese too early: If you add Parmesan while the sauce is still too hot or boiling, it might clump. Add it off the heat for a smooth melt.
Skipping the zest: Lemon zest is essential for bright, clean flavor. Without it, the sauce can feel too heavy.
Using pre-shredded cheese: It doesn’t melt well due to anti-caking agents. Always grate fresh.

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

Garlic Bread or Toasted Baguette

Crispy, buttery bread is perfect for scooping up that extra sauce.

Arugula or Spinach Salad

A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta.

Roasted Broccoli or Asparagus

Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper—quick, simple, and green.

Sautéed Green Beans with Garlic

A flavorful but easy side that doesn’t overpower the main dish.

Tomato Basil Soup

A cozy, comforting pairing—especially great during colder months.

Antipasto Skewers

A fun starter that adds a mix of textures and Italian flair.

Lemon Wedges on the Side

If anyone wants extra brightness, a squeeze of lemon at the table is perfect.

A Crisp White Wine or Sparkling Water with Lemon

The acidity complements the creamy, garlicky sauce beautifully.

Storage Instructions

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta stores surprisingly well—just a few tips to keep it tasting fresh:

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens.
Freezing not recommended: The creamy sauce may separate or become grainy when thawed. If you must freeze, store just the chicken and pasta—make a fresh sauce when reheating.
Meal prep tip: Store chicken, pasta, and sauce separately if you want the best texture when reheating.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – based on 4 servings)

Calories: ~580 kcal
Protein: 38g
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Carbohydrates: 42g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Cholesterol: 125mg
Sodium: 390mg

Note: These numbers are estimates and may vary depending on the specific brands and substitutions used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep the chicken and cook the pasta in advance. Store them separately and combine with freshly made sauce when ready to serve for the best texture.

What if I don’t have heavy cream?

No problem. You can substitute with half-and-half or a mix of milk and a bit of flour or cream cheese to thicken the sauce. Coconut milk also works for a dairy-free version.

Can I use rotisserie chicken instead?

Absolutely! It’s a great shortcut. Just shred it and add it to the sauce near the end to warm through.

Is this recipe spicy?

Not unless you add the red pepper flakes. If you’re cooking for kids or spice-sensitive folks, feel free to skip them—or add extra if you like heat!

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta and double-check that your chicken broth, cheese, and seasonings are certified gluten-free.

Can I add vegetables into the pasta?

Definitely. Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or peas would all be great additions. Just sauté or toss them in with the pasta before serving.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Avoid high heat when adding the cream. Let it come to room temperature and stir constantly while it warms gently in the pan.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat over low heat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or broth to keep the sauce smooth and creamy. The microwave works too—just go low and slow.

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is one of those recipes that feels fancy but couldn’t be easier to make. It’s loaded with comforting, crave-worthy flavor: juicy seared chicken, buttery garlic, zesty lemon, and creamy pasta all come together in a dish that’s both cozy and refreshing. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or a solo night in, this meal delivers every time. Once you try it, you’ll be coming back to it again and again—it’s that good.