Creamy, zesty, and bursting with flavor, this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is a restaurant-quality meal you can make in 30 minutes flat! Perfect for busy weeknights, date nights, or whenever you need a bright, comforting dish that wows.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Juicy, garlicky chicken with a crispy golden sear
✔ Creamy lemon Parmesan sauce that clings to every noodle
✔ Easy one-pan pasta – Minimal cleanup!
✔ Elegant enough for company, simple enough for Tuesday
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp butter
For the Pasta & Sauce:
- 8 oz farfalle (bowtie) pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (+ extra for serving)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 3 tbsp)
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
- Boil bowtie pasta in salted water until al dente (about 10 mins). Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken for 5-6 mins per side until golden and cooked through (165°F internal temp).
- Remove chicken, set aside, and slice.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
- In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté for 30 secs until fragrant.
- Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and heavy cream, stirring well.
- Simmer for 2-3 mins, then stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
Step 4: Combine & Serve
- Toss cooked pasta in the sauce, adding pasta water as needed to loosen.
- Add sliced chicken back to the skillet and coat in sauce.
- Garnish with lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and fresh parsley.
- Serve with extra Parmesan cheese and a lemon wedge!
Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
🔹 Don’t overcook the chicken – Let it rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
🔹 Use fresh lemon juice – Bottled won’t give the same bright flavor.
🔹 Pasta water is key – The starch helps the sauce cling perfectly.
🔹 Add veggies – Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or asparagus work great!
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta?
Yes! Penne, fettuccine, or rotini all work well.
How do I store leftovers?
Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days (sauce thickens—reheat with a splash of milk).
Can I make this dairy-free?
Substitute coconut cream for heavy cream and nutritional yeast for Parmesan.
What sides go well with this?
- Garlic bread
- Roasted broccoli
- Simple green salad
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is a flavor explosion—creamy, tangy, and garlicky with the perfect al dente bite. It’s a one-pan wonder that tastes like you spent hours cooking!
Ready to impress? Grab that skillet and let’s get cooking! 👩🍳🔥
(Love quick pasta dishes? Try our Creamy Sun-Dried Tomato Chicken Pasta or Garlic Butter Shrimp Scampi next!)
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Want any tweaks? Let me know—I’ll make it even more irresistible!