If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bright, zesty flavors and comforting creamy textures, the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe combines juicy, tender chicken breasts infused with fresh lemon and garlic notes alongside perfectly cooked bowtie pasta coated in a luscious parmesan cream sauce. It’s a simple yet elegant meal that feels like a special occasion but comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an ideal go-to when you want impressive flavors without spending hours cooking. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe promises a deliciously satisfying experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing the perfect balance of vibrancy, creaminess, and herbaceous freshness in this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Recipe. Each element plays a crucial role—from the zing of lemon to the rich parmesan that gently melts into the creamy sauce.
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless for quick cooking and easy slicing, delivering tender protein packed with flavor.
- Olive oil: A smooth cooking fat that helps sear the chicken to golden perfection while adding subtle fruitiness.
- Garlic (minced): Freshly minced to release bold, aromatic qualities essential for the sauce and chicken seasoning.
- Lemon zest and juice: The heart of this recipe, providing a bright, refreshing tang that lifts the entire dish.
- Dried oregano: Adds an earthy, slightly peppery depth complementing the chicken and sauce beautifully.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To elevate flavors and season carefully throughout the cooking process.
- Fresh parsley and basil: Chopped and added last for a burst of herbal freshness and color.
- Bowtie pasta (farfalle): Its shape holds onto the silky parmesan cream sauce perfectly, making every bite indulgent.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and smooth texture, balancing the lemon’s acidity in the sauce.
- Heavy cream: Creates the luxuriously creamy base of the sauce that clings to the pasta and chicken.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Offers a nutty, salty layer of flavor that melds beautifully with garlic and cream.
- Garlic powder: A subtle accent to reinforce the garlic flavor without overpowering the fresh minced garlic.
How to Make Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil to season the pasta from within. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until tender yet still firm to the bite (al dente). Save about half a cup of the cooking water before draining the pasta, as this starchy liquid will help loosen and enrich the sauce later.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, season your chicken breasts generously with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano for a simple but flavorful crust. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken until it turns golden brown and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), about 6 to 7 minutes per side. Once cooked, set it aside to rest briefly before slicing thinly against the grain to ensure maximum tenderness.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet that held the chicken, add the minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until it becomes fragrant but not burnt. Next, stir in the lemon zest, lemon juice, and a quarter cup of the reserved pasta water. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up those irresistible browned bits left from the chicken on the skillet bottom. Let this mixture simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, reducing slightly to concentrate the flavors.
Step 4: Make the Pasta Sauce
Stir in the butter, allowing it to melt fully and create a velvety base. Pour in the heavy cream, then sprinkle in the garlic powder and grated Parmesan cheese, mixing steadily. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, thickening just enough to lavishly coat the pasta. Taste and adjust with additional salt and pepper as desired for a perfectly balanced finish.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Chicken
Add the cooked bowtie pasta directly into the skillet with the luscious lemon garlic sauce. Toss gently so every piece of pasta is enveloped in the creamy, tangy goodness. Layer the sliced chicken breasts on top and give one final, gentle toss to marry all those wonderful flavors together before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Recipe hot from the pan, sprinkling a little fresh basil or parsley over the top to brighten each plate with color and fresh aroma. This simple step elevates the dish’s appeal and gives a lovely herbaceous punch in every bite.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs are your best friends here—sprinkle chopped parsley or basil for a pop of green and fresh, lively flavor. A light dusting of extra Parmesan cheese on top adds an inviting cheesiness that makes this dish even more irresistible.
Side Dishes
Pairing this meal with a bright, crisp side salad or some garlicky sautéed green beans complements the richness of the pasta and chicken. A loaf of crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delightful lemon garlic sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a touch of elegance, serve the pasta nest-style on individual plates, topping each with a fan of sliced chicken and a delicate sprinkle of microgreens or edible flowers. This presentation is perfect for dinner parties or date nights, making your Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Recipe feel truly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the chicken and pasta together to let the flavors continue to meld, but be aware the pasta may absorb more sauce and thicken over time, so add a splash of milk or water when reheating.
Freezing
This dish freezes well if you want to prepare in advance. Place portions in freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently over medium-low heat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick. Stir occasionally to warm evenly without drying out the chicken or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different pasta instead of bowtie pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti can easily substitute for bowtie pasta—just pick your favorite shape that will hold the creamy sauce well.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! Swap out the butter and heavy cream for dairy-free alternatives like olive oil and coconut cream or cashew cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan for that cheesy flavor.
How can I make this recipe healthier?
Opt for half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce, and use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta for added fiber and nutritional benefits. You can also add steamed veggies for extra nutrients.
Can I prepare parts of this recipe in advance?
You can cook the pasta and chicken ahead of time and store them separately. When ready to eat, simply warm everything up and quickly make the sauce to serve fresh.
What if I want more lemon flavor?
Feel free to add an extra teaspoon of lemon zest or a splash more lemon juice when making the sauce to elevate the citrus brightness according to your taste.
Final Thoughts
This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Recipe is truly a gem when you want a meal that’s quick, flavorful, and comforting all at once. Its bright lemon notes paired with creamy parmesan sauce create a harmony of flavors that’s hard to resist. Give it a try for your next dinner and enjoy how effortlessly it becomes a new household favorite—you might even find yourself making it again the very next week!
Print
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is a vibrant and creamy one-pan dish featuring tender chicken breasts cooked to perfection, tossed with al dente bowtie pasta and a luscious lemon garlic Parmesan sauce. It’s a quick and flavorful meal perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting dinner with family.
Ingredients
For the Chicken:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Pasta and Sauce:
- 8 oz bowtie pasta (farfalle)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water, and set it aside.
- Prepare the Chicken: While the pasta is cooking, season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 6–7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. Once the chicken is cool enough to handle, slice it thinly against the grain.
- Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce: In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, and 1/4 cup of reserved pasta water to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits left from cooking the chicken. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly reduced.
- Make the Pasta Sauce: Add the butter to the skillet and stir until melted. Pour in the heavy cream, garlic powder, and Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
- Combine the Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the lemon garlic sauce and toss to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Add the sliced chicken on top of the pasta and give it a final toss to mix everything together.
- Serve: Serve the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta immediately, garnished with fresh basil or parsley. Enjoy!
- Optional Substitutions and Tips: You can substitute the bowtie pasta with any other pasta you like, such as penne or fusilli. For extra flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a mild kick of heat. If you prefer a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream. To make this dish gluten-free, substitute gluten-free pasta and ensure the chicken is seasoned with gluten-free ingredients.
Notes
- Reserve some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.
- Ensure chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Garlic can burn quickly; cook it only until fragrant to avoid bitterness.
- Use fresh lemon zest and juice for the best citrus flavor.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
- Gluten-free pasta can be used to accommodate dietary restrictions.
- Adding fresh herbs at the end enhances flavor and presentation.
