If you are craving a meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, the Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Recipe is here to deliver. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken breasts infused with bright lemon and savory garlic flavors alongside a luscious, creamy Parmesan-coated bowtie pasta. It’s a perfect balance of fresh and comforting, quick enough for a weeknight dinner, yet impressive enough for guests. The marriage of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and cheesy goodness makes every bite an absolute delight, guaranteed to become a family favorite you’ll want to recreate again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things straightforward, relying on simple, fresh ingredients that each play an essential role in building bold flavors and creamy texture. Each component comes together to create a harmonious dish that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Tender protein that soaks up the zesty lemon garlic marinade beautifully.
- Olive oil: Provides a rich base for cooking the chicken evenly and developing a golden crust.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuses incredible aroma and depth to both the chicken and sauce.
- Lemon zest and fresh lemon juice: Brightens the whole dish with refreshing citrus notes.
- Dried oregano: Adds herbal warmth that complements the lemon and garlic perfectly.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Fresh parsley and basil: Offer fresh, vibrant color and a mild herbal finish for garnish.
- Bowtie pasta (farfalle): The fun shape holds onto the creamy sauce wonderfully.
- Unsalted butter: Enriches the sauce with silky texture and smoothness.
- Heavy cream: Creates a luxuriously creamy sauce that coats the pasta perfectly.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Brings the irresistible salty, nutty flavor that is signature to this dish.
- Garlic powder: Enhances the garlic profile in the creamy pasta sauce.
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—salt is crucial here to season the pasta from the inside out. Add the bowtie pasta and cook according to the package directions until al dente, which means tender but with a bit of bite to hold up well under the sauce. After draining, reserve about half a cup of the pasta water; this starchy liquid will be key to perfecting the sauce’s consistency later on.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
While your pasta is cooking, gently season both sides of the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium and cook the chicken breasts until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 6 to 7 minutes per side. Cooking time is important to get that wonderful crust without drying the meat. Set the chicken aside to rest briefly, then slice thinly across the grain to maintain tenderness and easy eating.
Step 3: Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook it just until fragrant—this takes about a minute, so keep an eye on it to avoid burning. Stir in lemon zest, fresh lemon juice, and a splash of your reserved pasta water, scraping any flavorful browned bits off the bottom of the pan. Simmer gently for a couple of minutes, allowing these bright flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly, intensifying the taste.
Step 4: Make the Pasta Sauce
Next, melt butter into your lemon-garlic mixture, stirring until fully incorporated. Pour in heavy cream, sprinkle in garlic powder, and gradually add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring constantly. Let the sauce simmer for several minutes until it thickens just enough to coat the pasta beautifully. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed—this step brings the creamy, cheesy goodness to life.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Chicken
Add your cooked bowtie pasta directly into the skillet, giving it a generous toss so every piece is coated in the dreamy lemon garlic cream sauce. Then, nestle the sliced chicken on top and gently mix once more to combine all those wonderful flavors. This final step ensures every forkful offers both tender chicken and velvety pasta in perfect harmony.
Step 6: Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Serve your masterpiece straight from the skillet while it’s warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley to add that bright pop of color and freshness. Each bite will taste like sunshine on a plate, with flavors that linger lovingly long after the meal is finished.
How to Serve Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs are the star garnish here. Sprinkling chopped basil or parsley not only adds beautiful green contrast but also fresh herbal notes that lighten up each creamy bite. A little extra grated Parmesan on top is always a win, offering that irresistible cheese pull we all adore.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs exceptionally well with crisp, simple sides. A green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness, while steamed asparagus or sautéed green beans bring vibrant crunch and color to your plate. Garlic bread or a light baguette can be great for soaking up any leftover sauce, too.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the pasta and chicken in individual shallow bowls with a lemon wedge on the side for guests to add extra brightness if they like. Garnish plates with edible flowers or microgreens for a special occasion. If you want to impress, drizzle a bit of good-quality olive oil over the top right before serving to add a silky finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. It will keep beautifully for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the same delicious flavors without starting from scratch.
Freezing
While this dish is best fresh, you can freeze it for longer storage. Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Be aware that the texture of the pasta may be slightly softer after thawing, but the flavors remain just as wonderful.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce as it may thicken when chilled. Microwaving works too—just heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure it warms evenly without drying out.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While bowtie pasta is ideal for holding the sauce with its shape, feel free to swap in penne, fusilli, or even spaghetti depending on what you have on hand or prefer.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
You can make this recipe dairy-free by swapping out heavy cream for coconut cream or a plant-based alternative, and using nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan to keep that cheesy flavor without dairy.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply use a gluten-free pasta and ensure all other ingredients, including seasonings, are gluten-free. The cooking process remains the same.
Can I prepare the sauce in advance?
Yes, the lemon garlic Parmesan sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently and toss with freshly cooked pasta and chicken when ready to serve.
What’s the best way to ensure the chicken stays juicy and tender?
Cooking chicken breasts over medium heat until just done and letting them rest before slicing helps keep them juicy. Avoid overcooking to prevent dryness—aim for an internal temperature around 165°F or 74°C.
Final Thoughts
If you want a dish that combines fresh, vibrant flavors with creamy comfort, this Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Recipe is calling your name. It’s one of those recipes that feels fancy yet comes together easily, ideal for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a staple in your culinary repertoire!
Print
Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta is a vibrant and creamy dish that combines tender, pan-seared chicken breasts with a luscious lemon garlic sauce tossed with al dente bowtie pasta. Infused with fresh lemon zest and juice, garlic, and Parmesan cheese, this recipe delivers a perfect balance of bright and savory flavors ideal for a quick, satisfying weeknight meal.
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 package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta, reserving about 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then set the pasta 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 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 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 aside. Once cooled, slice the chicken thinly against the grain.
- Make the Lemon Garlic Sauce: Using the same skillet, add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, avoiding burning. Add lemon zest, lemon juice, and 1/4 cup reserved pasta water, 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 grated Parmesan cheese, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine the Pasta and Chicken: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the lemon garlic sauce and toss to coat evenly. Add the sliced chicken on top and give everything a final toss to combine well.
- Serve: Plate the pasta and chicken immediately. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and enjoy your flavorful Lemon Garlic Chicken with Parmesan Bowtie Pasta.
Notes
- You can substitute bowtie pasta with penne, fusilli, or any pasta of your choice.
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a mild spicy kick.
- If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk.
- To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and verify all seasonings are gluten-free.
