Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta

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Introduction

This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a bright, cozy, and satisfying entrée that combines tender chicken, zesty citrus, and a silky pasta sauce. It’s a simple weeknight dinner that tastes like a restaurant favorite — comforting, vibrant, and family-approved.

Origin

Creamy pasta dishes have roots in Italian-inspired American cuisine, where home cooks blend Mediterranean flavors like lemon, garlic, and herbs with rich cream sauces. This dish celebrates that fusion by offering both freshness and indulgence in every bite.

Cultural Significance

Pasta is a universal comfort food, often associated with family meals, celebration, and togetherness. This recipe captures that joy — an easy, sharable dish that brings loved ones around the table for a delicious moment of connection.

Ingredients Quantity (Serves 4–6)

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
  • 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • Juice + zest of 1 lemon
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Optional Additions

  • A sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat
  • Add spinach, asparagus, or broccoli for extra veggies
  • Replace Parmesan with Pecorino for sharper flavor
  • Swap chicken for shrimp or grilled salmon
  • Top with lemon slices for presentation

Tips for Success

  • Don’t overcook the chicken — keep it juicy by searing quickly
  • Add lemon gradually and taste to balance acidity
  • Use freshly grated Parmesan so the sauce melts smoothly
  • Cook pasta al dente so it doesn’t get mushy in the sauce
  • Reserve a little pasta water in case the sauce needs thinning

Instructions

  1. Cook bowtie pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
  2. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
  3. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  4. Add chicken and cook until golden and cooked through, 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  5. In the same skillet, add garlic and sauté 1 minute until fragrant.
  6. Stir in chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest; simmer 2–3 minutes.
  7. Pour in heavy cream and Parmesan; stir until smooth and thickened.
  8. Return chicken to skillet and add cooked pasta. Toss to coat.
  9. Simmer 2 minutes, adding pasta water if needed for consistency.
  10. Taste, adjust seasoning, and garnish with parsley before serving.

Description

Creamy, light, and full of lemon-garlic brightness, this dish brings together velvety pasta and tender chicken in a sauce that is both refreshing and luxurious. Every forkful is perfectly balanced — rich yet zesty, comforting yet lively.

Nutritional Information (Approx. per serving)

  • Calories: ~540
  • Protein: 33g
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
    (Values vary by cheese, cream, and serving size)

Conclusion

Lemon Garlic Chicken with Creamy Bowtie Pasta is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that turns simple ingredients into a satisfying meal. It’s fast enough for weeknights but elegant enough for entertaining.

Recommendation

Serve with:

  • A crisp side salad
  • Garlic bread or warm rolls
  • A chilled lemon-sparkling drink

Leftovers reheat beautifully — a great lunch treat!

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Enjoy the creamy comfort while appreciating the balance of lean protein and bright citrus. Meals like this remind us that nourishing food can also be joyful — savor the flavor and the moment!

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