Bowtie Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta

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🎀 Bowtie Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta

Creamy comfort food with a fresh, zesty twist

Bowtie Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta is the perfect balance of rich and refreshing. Tender chicken strips are lightly seasoned and pan-seared, then tossed in a silky lemon garlic cream sauce infused with Parmesan and herbs. Finished with perfectly cooked bowtie (farfalle) pasta, this dish feels indulgent yet light enough to enjoy year-round.

It’s a fantastic choice for busy weeknights, family dinners, or when you want a restaurant-style meal without the hassle. The lemon brightens the creamy sauce, while garlic and cheese bring deep, comforting flavor to every bite.

⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Creamy without being heavy

  • Bright lemon flavor balances the richness

  • Family-friendly and meal-prep friendly

  • Ready in about 30 minutes

  • Elegant enough for guests, easy enough for weeknights

🛒 Ingredients

🍗 Chicken

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon paprika

  • ½ teaspoon salt

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 tablespoon butter

🍝 Pasta & Sauce

  • 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta

  • 3 tablespoons butter

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)

  • ½ cup chicken broth

  • Zest of 1 lemon

  • Juice of 1 lemon (about 2–3 tablespoons)

  • ¾ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

  • ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

🌿 Garnish (Optional)

  • Fresh parsley or basil, chopped

  • Extra Parmesan cheese

  • Lemon slices

🍽️ Instructions

1️⃣ Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

2️⃣ Season & Cook the Chicken

Season chicken strips with garlic powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

3️⃣ Build the Lemon Garlic Sauce

In the same skillet, melt the remaining butter. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30–45 seconds, just until fragrant.

Pour in chicken broth and scrape up any browned bits from the pan — this adds deep flavor.

Stir in heavy cream, lemon zest, lemon juice, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Simmer gently for 3–5 minutes until slightly thickened.

4️⃣ Add Cheese & Combine

Reduce heat to low and stir in Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water.

Return cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to coat evenly.

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