Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

by Nina Johnson August 22, 2025

When you’re in the mood for comfort food with a citrusy zing, this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta delivers a knockout dinner with minimal effort. Juicy golden chicken bites meet rich, garlicky cream sauce, tossed through tender bowtie pasta—each bite is packed with flavor. It’s a one-plate wonder that feels both cozy and elevated.

Whether you’re serving it for a weeknight family dinner or hosting friends over the weekend, this dish brings balance with its light lemon freshness and decadent parmesan cream. The bright herbs and silky sauce make it hard to resist a second helping.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best for This Recipe?

Bowtie pasta (also known as farfalle) isn’t just pretty to look at—its ruffled edges and pinched center are perfect for catching creamy sauces. This shape holds up well to the weight of the lemon garlic cream and doesn’t turn soggy, making it ideal for this dish.

Ingredients for the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Chicken Breast: Lean, boneless, and skinless—it sears beautifully and remains juicy when cubed.

Bowtie Pasta (Farfalle): Its fun shape and texture make it perfect for trapping sauce.

Fresh Garlic: Intensifies the savory depth. Use fresh cloves for the best punch.

Lemon Juice + Zest: Adds bright acidity that cuts through the richness.

Heavy Cream: The foundation for a lush, silky sauce that coats each noodle.

Parmesan Cheese: Brings salty, nutty depth to balance the tangy lemon.

Butter + Olive Oil: For richness and helping sear the chicken to golden perfection.

Italian Seasoning: Adds earthy herby flavor that complements both the chicken and sauce.

Fresh Parsley & Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, but they elevate the final dish with color and mild heat.

How To Make the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

Start by cubing the chicken breasts and seasoning them with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat a mix of olive oil and butter in a large skillet and sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

While the chicken cooks, boil a pot of salted water and cook the bowtie pasta until al dente. Drain and reserve a little pasta water.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Lemon Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet used for the chicken, melt some more butter. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, then stir in lemon zest and juice. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Pasta

Whisk in grated parmesan until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Add cooked pasta and toss to coat, adding reserved pasta water a tablespoon at a time if needed to loosen the sauce.

Step 5: Combine and Garnish

Return the seared chicken to the pan and toss everything together. Finish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

How to Serve and Store Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

Serve this dish warm, fresh from the pan, ideally with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. It’s also great with a slice of crusty bread to mop up that luscious sauce.

To store leftovers, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to bring the sauce back to life.