Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 21 reviews
  • Author: Diane
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Description

This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a delicious and comforting dish that combines tender seared chicken bites with a rich, creamy lemon-garlic sauce tossed with al dente farfalle pasta. The fresh lemon zest and juice add a bright and zestful flavor, balanced by the savory Parmesan cheese and aromatic garlic. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and serves four generously.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 1 pound Chicken Breasts (Cut into bite-sized chunks)
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (To taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper (To taste)
  • Pinch of Lemon Zest (from 1 lemon)
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (For searing the chicken)

Sauce

  • 3 cloves Garlic (Minced)
  • 1 whole Lemon (Juice and zest)
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream (Base of the sauce)
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly grated)

Pasta & Garnish

  • 12 ounces Farfalle Pasta (Can substitute with whole wheat or spinach pasta)
  • 1/4 cup Fresh Parsley (Chopped)


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels and season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of lemon zest. Set aside while you heat the skillet.
  2. Sear the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Sear for about 5-6 minutes until golden brown. Remove the chicken and keep warm.
  3. Cook the Pasta: In a separate large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 10-12 minutes. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water and set aside.
  4. Sauté the Garlic: In the same skillet used for the chicken, reduce heat to medium. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn.
  5. Make the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream, followed by fresh lemon juice and zest. Let simmer for 3-4 minutes to meld flavors and thicken slightly.
  6. Incorporate the Cheese: Gradually whisk in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce is smooth and thickens to desired consistency.
  7. Combine Pasta and Chicken: Add cooked farfalle and seared chicken back into the skillet, tossing gently to coat everything in the creamy sauce. Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.
  8. Garnish and Serve: Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot for a delightful meal.

Notes

  • Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and texture in the sauce.
  • Reserve pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
  • Be careful not to burn the garlic when sautéing as it will affect the sauce flavor.
  • Substitute farfalle pasta with whole wheat or spinach pasta for added nutrition.
  • This dish pairs well with a light green salad or steamed vegetables.