A warm and inviting aroma fills the kitchen, drawing family and friends closer as they anticipate a delicious meal. This indulgent lemon garlic chicken with creamy bowtie pasta takes about 30 minutes to prepare and delivers a delightful balance of flavors that is undeniably comforting. The creamy sauce combined with zesty lemon and tender chicken creates a dish that is both satisfying and impressive.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or for a casual dinner gathering, making it a go-to for any occasion. You can make the chicken and sauce ahead of time and simply reheat when ready to serve, ensuring a stress-free meal experience.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Golden and crispy chicken adds a satisfying bite.
- Creamy sauce envelops the pasta for a luscious texture.
- Fresh lemon brightens the entire dish, enhancing flavor.
- Quick preparation time makes it perfect for busy evenings.
What You’ll Need
Gather these ingredients to create the perfect dish.
For the Chicken
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for searing the chicken
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 whole lemon, juice and zest
For the Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream, base of the sauce
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces farfalle pasta (can substitute with whole wheat or spinach pasta)
- 1 teaspoon salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
Substitutions: Use any preferred pasta type.
Substitutions & Swaps
- Chicken can be swapped for turkey.
- Heavy cream may be replaced with half-and-half.
- Parmesan can be substituted with Pecorino Romano.
- Fresh parsley can be omitted for a simplified garnish.
How to Make It
Create this delicious dish in just a few simple steps.
1. Heat oil
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, it’s ready for the chicken.
2. Sear chicken
Add the chicken chunks to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 8–10 minutes.
3. Add garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing the garlic flavor to infuse the oil and chicken.
4. Combine lemon
Pour in the lemon juice and add the lemon zest, stirring to combine. Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes.
5. Prepare sauce
Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy, about 3–5 minutes.
6. Cook pasta
While the sauce simmers, cook the farfalle pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
7. Mix together
Combine the cooked pasta with the creamy sauce and chicken mixture in the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything evenly.
8. Serve
Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your meal!
How to Store It
Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: No, consistency changes after freezing.
Reheat: Warm in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway.
Tips for Best Results
- Use a high-quality olive oil for better flavor.
- Don’t overcook the chicken; it should remain juicy.
- Adjust lemon juice based on your taste preference for brightness.
- Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a light meal.
- Offer garlic bread on the side for dipping.
- Enjoy with a glass of white wine for a complete dinner experience.
