Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan Recipe

Meet your new weeknight hero: Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan. This irresistible dish combines tender strips of chicken tossed with zesty lemon and aromatic garlic, nestled in a rich, velvety Parmesan sauce that perfectly coats each bowtie pasta. It’s the kind of uncomplicated yet luxurious meal you dream of after a busy day, and it has quickly become a staple in my kitchen. Best of all, every bite bursts with bright, creamy, and savory flavors that come together in under an hour—pure, pasta-powered comfort!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the essentials for Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan couldn’t be easier. Each ingredient, from the fragrant garlic to the creamy Parmesan, plays a special role in layering flavors and textures that transform simple ingredients into something truly memorable.

• Chicken breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts create a juicy, protein-packed foundation that soaks up all the bright lemon-garlic flavor.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the sauce, bringing every ingredient to life.
• Garlic powder and onion powder: These pantry staples deliver robust, all-over flavor to the chicken.
• Italian seasoning: Adds a subtle, herbaceous depth that ties everything together beautifully.
• Olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken, adding richness and a hint of fruitiness.
• Fresh garlic: Minced garlic brings boldness and umami, infusing the sauce and chicken.
• Lemon (zest and juice): The zest offers intense citrus aroma, while the juice gives that fresh, tangy pop.
• Butter: A little butter rounds out and softens all the flavors in the sauce and chicken.
• Bowtie pasta: This whimsical pasta shape is not just fun—its ruffles catch the creamy sauce for maximum flavor.
• Heavy cream: The base of the creamy sauce, making everything feel luxurious and indulgent.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds savory, nutty umami and helps thicken the sauce to velvety perfection.
• Chicken broth: Boosts the savory depth and prevents the sauce from being too heavy.
• Fresh parsley: The finishing touch, adding color and a burst of freshness right at the end.

How to Make Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan

Step 1: Cook the Bowtie Pasta

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the bowtie pasta and cook until just al dente—this usually takes about 10-11 minutes. Reserve a small cup of pasta water before draining. The starches in that water are your secret weapon for adjusting sauce consistency later!

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

While your pasta is bubbling away, season the chicken strips generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high, then add the chicken strips in a single layer. Let them sizzle until golden on each side and cooked through, about 6-7 minutes per side, for flavor-packed, juicy bites.

Step 3: Infuse with Garlic and Lemon

Lower the heat, then stir in the minced garlic, cooking for just a minute until fragrant (but not brown). Next, add the lemon zest and juice—you’ll see the aroma fill your kitchen! Finish this step by melting in a tablespoon of butter to give your chicken a glossy, citrusy coating. Remove the chicken and set it aside, but keep all those flavorful bits in the skillet.

Step 4: Simmer the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In the same skillet, drop in the remaining butter. Once melted, pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up any golden pan bits for extra depth. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to thicken. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan until smooth and silky, seasoning with a pinch of salt and a dash of black pepper.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

To finish your Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan, add the drained pasta to the skillet, tossing gently so each piece is coated in that luscious sauce. Adjust with a splash of reserved pasta water if needed. Return the lemon garlic chicken to the pan, folding everything together so the flavors meld. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and another shower of Parmesan.

How to Serve Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan

Garnishes

For the ultimate finish, sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese over each serving. The parsley adds a splash of color and a clean, herbal lift, while the extra cheese brings even more creamy, savory goodness. If you like a hint of heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper works wonders, too.

Side Dishes

Since Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan is so rich and flavorful, I love to serve it with a simple green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette. Steamed asparagus, roasted broccoli, or even garlicky green beans are also perfect, offering freshness and crunch to contrast the creamy pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

Instead of serving family-style, try plating the pasta in shallow bowls with delicate swirls, topped with neatly arranged chicken strips and a lemon wedge on the rim for that restaurant touch. Or, for gatherings, serve in individual ramekins with toasted breadcrumbs for a festive twist!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers of Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan into airtight containers and refrigerate, where it will stay fresh for up to three days. The sauce may thicken a bit, but a splash of broth or cream will revive it beautifully.

Freezing

You can freeze this dish, though cream sauces can separate a little on thawing. For best results, let the pasta and chicken cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to two months. Thaw gently in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat gently in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, stirring often. Add a tablespoon or two of broth, cream, or milk to loosen the sauce. Avoid heating too quickly to keep the cream from splitting.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and a bit more flavorful, so they work beautifully in Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan. Just trim excess fat and adjust the cooking time as needed.

Is there a lighter alternative to heavy cream?

You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or even evaporated milk for a lighter sauce. While the result may be less rich, it will still be delectably creamy.

Can I make this recipe gluten free?

Yes! Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free bowtie (or any short) pasta and double-check that your chicken broth is gluten free. All other ingredients are naturally gluten free.

What other herbs pair well with this dish?

Fresh basil, thyme, or chives can add a twist to the flavor profile of Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan. Add them as a garnish right before serving for best results.

Can I add vegetables to the pasta?

Definitely! Toss in baby spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or sautéed mushrooms for extra color and nutrition. Add them when you combine the chicken back into the sauce so everything mixes well.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that feels special but fits into your busiest week, Bowtie Pasta with Creamy Lemon Garlic Chicken & Parmesan is the one to try! With its lively lemon zing and silky Parmesan sauce, it never fails to impress. Give it a spot in your rotation, and don’t forget that final shower of cheese!

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