Creamy Lemon Chicken Bowtie Pasta

Craving comfort food with a zesty twist, this creamy lemon chicken bowtie pasta brings together tender chicken and a luscious lemon garlic parmesan sauce for a meal that feels like a restaurant night at home. I love how it makes weeknight dinners feel special, yet comes together so quickly you can pull it off on even your busiest days.

I first whipped this up on a spring evening when I needed something cozy without being heavy. Every time I make it now, my family lights up and asks for seconds before dinner is even served.

Ingredients

• Bowtie pasta: keeps its shape well and catches plenty of sauce make sure to pick a brand with a nice toothsome texture
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: give a lean protein boost look for even thickness for easy cooking
• Olive oil: brings out flavor without overpowering offer mild extra virgin for sautéing
• Fresh garlic: infuses the sauce with bold flavor always choose firm unblemished cloves
• Lemon: brightens everything up use fresh juicy lemons for zest and juice
• Butter: enriches the sauce opt for unsalted for better control of seasoning
• Heavy cream: makes the sauce ultra smooth full fat is best here
• Chicken broth: adds savory depth use low sodium if you prefer
• Parmesan cheese: provides salty complexity always grate fresh for the creamiest results
• Garlic powder and onion powder: layer gentle flavor pick organic if possible for best taste
• Italian seasoning: ties it all together check the blend for freshness and aroma
• Fresh parsley: gives a pop of color and herbal note select flat leaf parsley for more flavor
• Salt and pepper: essential for balance and seasoning taste as you go

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook Pasta:

Boil water generously salted and add bowtie pasta Cook until al dente based on package directions Reserve half a cup of pasta water then drain

Season and Sear Chicken:

Pat chicken breasts dry Season both sides generously with salt pepper garlic powder onion powder and Italian herbs Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add chicken Cook undisturbed until golden about five minutes Flip and finish cooking until done through Transfer to a plate and rest

Sauté Garlic and Lemon:

In the same skillet lower heat Add minced garlic Stir constantly for about one minute until fragrant Add fresh lemon zest and juice along with butter Toss seared chicken back into the skillet turning to coat well in the lemon garlic mixture

Build the Sauce:

Remove chicken again Melt more butter in the skillet Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth Whisk gently Simmer for several minutes until the mixture thickens slightly Keep heat gentle so cream does not separate

Add Cheese and Season:

Slowly add grated parmesan whisking until the sauce becomes silky and smooth Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed

Toss Pasta and Finish:

Tip cooked pasta into the pan with the creamy sauce If too thick splash in reserved pasta water Toss to coat every piece Add the lemon garlic chicken sliced if you like Garnish generously with chopped fresh parsley and extra parmesan Serve hot and enjoy

Pin it

The lemon zest is my favorite part It adds sunshine to the sauce and reminds me of the lemon trees in my grandmother’s backyard She always kept a bowl of lemons on the table and used them in everything which made the whole house smell wonderful

Storage Tips

Once completely cooled pack leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days For the best texture reheat gently over low heat adding a splash of broth or cream if the sauce has thickened Pasta can be frozen but the sauce may separate a bit upon thawing so stir well after reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

If you are short on chicken breasts boneless chicken thighs work well for extra juiciness To lighten up the sauce try half and half instead of heavy cream For a vegetarian version replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms and swap chicken broth with vegetable stock

Serving Suggestions

Pair this pasta with a crisp green salad and a slice of garlic bread or roasted vegetables for extra color and crunch It is also wonderful topped with a swirl of extra lemon juice and a sprinkle of fresh basil

Cultural Context

This recipe takes inspiration from Italian pasta dishes that blend cream and citrus together Chicken limone for example uses similar flavors but this version adds a modern twist with the creamy cheese sauce and bowtie noodles It is the sort of meal you might find at a family trattoria served with warm bread and laughter at the table

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How can I prevent the chicken from overcooking?

Sear the chicken over medium heat until golden and cooked through, then set aside while preparing the sauce to retain moisture.

→ Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free cheese alternatives for similar creaminess.

→ What type of pasta works best?

Bowtie pasta holds the sauce beautifully but you can substitute with penne or fusilli if preferred.

→ Can I add vegetables to this meal?

Absolutely! Spinach, peas, or broccoli make great additions for extra color and nutrition.

→ How do I make the sauce extra silky?

Reserve some pasta water to incorporate gradually until the sauce reaches your desired consistency.

→ Is it necessary to use freshly grated parmesan?

Freshly grated parmesan melts better and enhances flavor, but pre-grated can be used in a pinch.