Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
If you’re looking for a flavorful yet simple pasta dinner that balances creamy richness with zesty freshness, this lemon garlic chicken pasta is your answer. Combining bow tie pasta with juicy chicken breast and a tangy lemon garlic sauce, this dish is a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or when you’re prepping meals in advance. With its light yet satisfying flavor, it brings the perfect harmony of comfort and brightness to your dinner table.
The use of farfalle pasta—commonly known as bow tie pasta—adds a fun texture and visual appeal to the dish. According to Wikipedia’s guide to farfalle, this pasta shape is ideal for holding creamy or chunky sauces, making it a smart choice for this particular recipe. Paired with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a creamy base, the lemon garlic chicken pasta hits all the right notes of savory, citrusy, and aromatic.
One of the best parts of this recipe is its flexibility. You can prepare it ahead for work lunches, serve it warm for a casual family dinner, or bring it to potlucks where it’s sure to please even picky eaters. The combination of garlic, lemon, and chicken is universally loved, and when served over pasta, it becomes even more irresistible. For more inspiration, check out this Pinterest board of bowtie pasta dishes that showcases different serving styles and ingredient pairings that can elevate your pasta night.
Internal links to related dishes like creamy garlic chicken recipes or easy pasta dinners can guide readers to explore similar meals, offering more value and engagement. If you enjoy this, you might also want to explore our creamy Tuscan chicken pasta or lemon herb chicken skillet—perfect companions to this meal type.
This chicken bowtie pasta isn’t just about taste—it’s about creating a balanced, wholesome meal in under 30 minutes. And as we dive deeper, you’ll see how accessible the ingredients are and how effortless it is to bring this dish together without compromising on flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Bowtie Pasta Recipe
This lemon garlic chicken pasta brings together everyday ingredients in a way that feels special without requiring extra effort. Whether you’re a home cook with limited time or someone planning ahead for weekly lunches, this dish fits beautifully into your routine. The appeal lies in its simplicity, freshness, and versatility.
Here’s why this recipe earns a permanent spot in your meal rotation:
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Quick and beginner-friendly: With just one pot for boiling and one skillet for the sauce and protein, it’s an easy clean-up meal that takes about 30 minutes start to finish.
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Bright and creamy flavor combo: The lemon garlic sauce strikes a perfect balance between zesty citrus and savory richness. It’s not too heavy thanks to the lemon juice, yet the heavy cream provides the creamy texture everyone loves.
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Customizable for any occasion: Whether served hot as a comfort dish or chilled as a pasta salad, this chicken bowtie pasta works for a variety of settings—from potlucks to weekday dinners.
Using boneless, skinless chicken breast ensures lean protein without fuss. According to Wikipedia’s page on chicken as food, this cut remains one of the healthiest and most versatile options, especially when paired with light sauces. The inclusion of garlic also brings a depth of flavor and nutritional benefits, known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
For more meal ideas, this Pinterest collection of garlic chicken pasta recipes showcases similar dishes that follow the same creamy, garlicky profile. It’s a great source for finding your own variations of this recipe.
This dish checks every box for what people love about home-cooked meals: comforting, crowd-pleasing, and packed with flavor. And because it’s easy to tweak for dietary needs or seasonal produce, it’s a reliable favorite that never feels boring.
Ingredients Overview and Substitutions
The magic of this lemon garlic chicken pasta starts with its well-balanced ingredients. Each element contributes flavor, texture, or creaminess to create a dish that’s both comforting and refreshing. Let’s break down the essentials and explore substitutions to help you make it your own.
Key Ingredients Breakdown
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Bowtie (Farfalle) Pasta
The bow tie pasta, also known as farfalle, has a unique shape that traps sauce beautifully. If you don’t have farfalle on hand, penne, rotini, or fusilli make excellent substitutes due to their similar ability to hold sauces well. -
Chicken Breast
Boneless, skinless chicken breast is lean, cooks quickly, and pairs well with delicate sauces. You can swap it for chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor, or even use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time. Wikipedia’s chicken guide offers more info on different cuts of chicken and their uses. -
Garlic
Fresh, minced garlic adds depth and aroma. While jarred garlic or garlic paste can be used, nothing beats the sharp flavor of fresh cloves. Learn more about its benefits in this Wikipedia article on garlic. -
Lemon (Juice and Zest)
The zest and juice of a fresh lemon bring brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the cream. Avoid bottled lemon juice if possible—it lacks the vibrancy of fresh citrus. Here’s more about lemons and their culinary uses. -
Chicken Broth
Used to deglaze the skillet and build the sauce. Opt for low-sodium broth so you can control salt levels. Vegetable broth works if you’re adapting the recipe for a vegetarian version. -
Heavy Cream
This gives the sauce its creamy texture. You can substitute with half-and-half or a dairy-free option like coconut cream, though the flavor will slightly change. Cream variations explained here. -
Parmesan Cheese
Freshly grated Parmesan melts into the sauce, adding a nutty, savory dimension. Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly. For a dairy-free version, try nutritional yeast. More about Parmesan can be found on Wikipedia. -
Olive Oil
Used to cook the chicken and garlic, it adds a smooth mouthfeel. Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. -
Salt and Black Pepper
Essential for seasoning both the chicken and the final sauce. Be sure to season the pasta water as well. -
Fresh Parsley
Adds a burst of freshness and color at the end. Basil or chives work too if you’re out of parsley.
Pantry Tips
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Use rotisserie chicken for a shortcut: Shred pre-cooked chicken and add it at the simmering stage to save prep time.
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Zest your lemon before juicing: It’s much easier to do in this order and helps capture the natural oils that add flavor to the dish.
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Reserve some pasta water: This starchy liquid helps thin the sauce and helps it cling to the pasta if it becomes too thick.
For even more ideas on variations of this dish, browse this Pinterest board full of lemon chicken pasta ideas. You’ll find creative ways to mix in vegetables, change the protein, or even turn it into a baked pasta.
These foundational ingredients and pantry-friendly substitutions make the dish adaptable to different dietary needs, seasons, and preferences—all while preserving the essence of what makes lemon garlic chicken pasta so appealing.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Creating this lemon garlic chicken pasta is straightforward and efficient, making it a perfect choice for both beginners and seasoned home cooks. With just one pot and one skillet, you’ll have a flavorful, restaurant-quality dish ready in under 30 minutes. Here’s how to bring it all together:
1. Cook the Bow Tie Pasta
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Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
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Add 12 oz of farfalle pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
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Before draining, reserve about ½ cup of the pasta water to adjust sauce consistency later.
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Drain and set aside.
Tip: According to Wikipedia’s pasta guide, salting the pasta water is key to infusing flavor directly into the noodles.
2. Sear the Chicken
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While the pasta cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
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Add 1 pound of chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces.
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Season with salt and black pepper, then sauté until golden brown and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes).
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Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
This step locks in moisture and flavor. For extra richness, you can also sprinkle a pinch of paprika or Italian seasoning on the chicken before cooking.
3. Build the Lemon Garlic Sauce
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In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add 4 minced garlic cloves. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant—be careful not to brown the garlic.
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Stir in the zest and juice of 1 lemon, along with ½ cup of chicken broth.
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Let the mixture simmer for 2–3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the chicken (these add major flavor).
The lemon garlic combination creates a refreshing base while the broth adds savory depth. This stage is essential for forming the core of the sauce.
Explore other lemon-based sauces in this Pinterest collection of lemon pasta dishes to find complementary ideas.
4. Add Cream and Parmesan
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Reduce heat to low and stir in ½ cup heavy cream and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese.
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Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and slightly thickened—about 2–3 minutes.
If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water. For extra creaminess, you can increase the Parmesan slightly, but be mindful of the salt content.
Parmesan cheese adds a nutty, umami boost that ties the whole sauce together. Use freshly grated cheese for the smoothest result.
5. Combine Chicken and Pasta
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Return the cooked chicken to the skillet, along with any juices that collected.
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Let everything simmer together for another 2–3 minutes to blend the flavors.
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Add the cooked pasta and toss until evenly coated in sauce. Use tongs or a spatula to combine gently.
6. Garnish and Serve
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Finish with 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.
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Serve warm with extra Parmesan on top, if desired.
This one-skillet meal is rich, tangy, and balanced with creaminess and zest. It’s ready to be plated as-is or alongside garlic bread or salad for a fuller meal.
To explore more pasta shapes that work with cream sauces, check out this guide on pasta types, which highlights how shape affects sauce adhesion and mouthfeel.
Now that you’ve mastered the process, the next step is fine-tuning the recipe with chef-level tips and flavor enhancements to make it truly your own.
Pro Tips for the Best Lemon Garlic Chicken Pasta
Making a delicious lemon garlic chicken pasta is easy, but a few expert tips can take your dish from good to exceptional. These small adjustments ensure balanced flavors, ideal texture, and a flawless finish every time you cook.
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Use freshly grated Parmesan: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Freshly grated Parmesan ensures a creamier sauce that blends seamlessly.
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Don’t overcook the pasta: Aim for al dente texture so the pasta holds its shape and doesn’t turn mushy when mixed with the sauce. This is especially important for bow tie pasta, which can lose structure if boiled too long.
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Let the chicken rest before mixing: After cooking, give the chicken a minute or two to rest. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender and moist when it’s added back to the sauce.
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Finish with lemon zest: For maximum citrus impact, sprinkle extra zest just before serving. The oils in the zest release a fragrant aroma and bright finish that balances the creamy sauce.
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Add pasta water to adjust consistency: The reserved pasta water contains starch that can help loosen a too-thick sauce without making it watery. Add it gradually until you reach your desired texture.
For more visual examples of presentation and plating, browse this Pinterest board of lemon chicken pasta ideas, where home cooks and food bloggers showcase creative finishing touches and variations.
These pro tips make a noticeable difference in your cooking experience and final result, helping you create restaurant-quality pasta right in your own kitchen.
Variations and Additions
The versatility of lemon garlic chicken pasta makes it an ideal base for customization. Whether you’re looking to boost nutrition, swap proteins, or change the flavor profile, this dish adapts effortlessly.
Add-ins
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Spinach or kale: Stir in a handful of baby spinach or chopped kale toward the end of cooking. These greens wilt quickly and blend perfectly into the creamy sauce.
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Cherry tomatoes: Add burst cherry tomatoes for a touch of sweetness and color contrast.
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Mushrooms or bell peppers: Sautéed mushrooms or colorful bell peppers bring earthiness and crunch to balance the creaminess.
Protein Swaps
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Shrimp: Replace chicken with shrimp for a seafood twist. Cook the shrimp in garlic and lemon for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
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Salmon: Flake cooked salmon into the pasta just before serving for a richer, omega-3-packed variation.
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Rotisserie chicken: A time-saving choice that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
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Plant-based options: Try tofu, chickpeas, or your favorite meat substitute to make the dish vegetarian-friendly.
Spice It Up
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Red pepper flakes: Add a pinch for subtle heat that contrasts the lemon and cream.
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Cajun seasoning or paprika: These seasonings add depth and smoky notes, transforming the flavor profile entirely.
You can also explore more spicy garlic pasta variations in this Pinterest board of garlic chicken pasta recipes.
With a few simple adjustments, this dish becomes a blank canvas for endless creativity while still delivering that classic lemon garlic pasta experience.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
This chicken bowtie pasta pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and beverages, making it ideal for casual dinners or more formal gatherings. Here are some delicious ways to round out your meal:
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Garlic Bread: A crispy, buttery slice of garlic bread is the perfect complement to soak up the creamy lemon garlic sauce.
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Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
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Roasted Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or carrots add color, texture, and nutrients to your plate.
For a family-friendly option, serve the pasta with:
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Steamed broccoli
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Fruit salad
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Dinner rolls
If you’re planning a date night or entertaining guests:
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Wine Pairing: Try Sauvignon Blanc or lightly oaked Chardonnay. Both have citrusy or buttery notes that match the dish perfectly.
Explore more pairing ideas using the Wikipedia wine and food pairing guide, which offers insight into flavor balancing with pasta.
This pasta’s creamy, lemony flavor makes it a flexible main course that adapts to various side dishes and occasions.
Storage, Meal Prep & Reheating Tips
The beauty of this dish isn’t just in its flavor—it also stores and reheats well, making it great for meal prep and leftovers.
How to Store
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
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Keep pasta and sauce together, or separate them if you plan to reheat on the stovetop.
Freezing Tips
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For best texture, freeze the sauce and chicken separately from the pasta.
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Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
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Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently.
Reheating Without Drying Out
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Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk, cream, or broth to loosen the sauce.
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Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, and add liquid as needed.
This dish is ideal for lunchboxes or batch cooking. Consider portioning leftovers into individual containers for easy grab-and-go meals throughout the week.
Nutrition Information
This dish provides a balanced combination of protein, carbs, and fats. Here’s a general breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings total):
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Calories: ~520
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Protein: 32g
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Carbohydrates: 45g
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Fat: 22g
To make the dish lighter:
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Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
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Reduce Parmesan cheese slightly.
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Swap in zoodles or chickpea pasta for a low-carb version.
Garlic chicken pasta with lemon and cream can be indulgent and healthy with a few smart adjustments. Learn more about cream variations and nutrition to tailor the dish to your needs.
Make It Ahead for Potlucks or Lunches
This lemon garlic chicken pasta is ideal for planning ahead. It holds up well in the fridge and can be served warm or cold.
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Make-ahead tip: Prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance and store it covered in the fridge.
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Serving cold: Skip reheating and enjoy it as a creamy pasta salad. A little extra lemon juice before serving refreshes the flavor.
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Baked version: Assemble the dish in a casserole dish, top with extra cheese, and bake at 375°F for 15 minutes until golden and bubbly.
This flexibility makes it a great addition to potlucks, office lunches, or busy weeknight dinners.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even a simple recipe like lemon garlic chicken pasta can go wrong if certain steps are overlooked. Avoid these common pitfalls for best results:
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Overcooking the chicken: Use a meat thermometer or cut into the thickest piece to ensure it’s just cooked through—juicy, not dry.
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Curdling the cream: Don’t add cream to a boiling mixture. Reduce the heat and stir slowly to avoid separation.
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Skipping the pasta water: This starchy liquid is essential for adjusting sauce texture and helping it cling to the pasta.
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Underseasoning: Season pasta water with salt and don’t forget to taste the sauce before serving. A pinch of salt at the end can make all the difference.
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Using bottled lemon juice: It lacks the bright, aromatic quality of fresh lemon. Always zest and juice a real lemon for the best flavor.
Avoiding these missteps ensures a smooth cooking experience and a well-balanced, crowd-pleasing dish.
FAQs: People Also Ask
Can I make lemon garlic chicken pasta without cream?
Yes. You can use olive oil and a bit of pasta water with grated Parmesan for a lighter, dairy-free sauce. Alternatively, swap in coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative.
What type of pasta works best with lemon garlic sauce?
Farfalle (bow tie pasta) is ideal because its ridges catch the sauce well. Penne, fettuccine, or rotini are also great options. Learn more about pasta shapes in this Wikipedia article.
How do I make this pasta more creamy?
Add extra Parmesan cheese, a splash more cream, and be sure to simmer the sauce long enough for it to thicken properly. A small amount of cream cheese can also boost creaminess.
Can I use leftover chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely. Shred cooked chicken and stir it into the sauce during the simmering stage. This is a great way to repurpose rotisserie chicken or grilled leftovers.
What vegetables go well in lemon chicken pasta?
Spinach, asparagus, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, and zucchini all work well. Add greens at the end so they wilt gently, and roast firmer vegetables beforehand for best texture.
Is this pasta good for meal prep?
Yes. It stores well for up to 4 days and reheats beautifully. Keep the pasta slightly undercooked initially so it doesn’t become mushy later.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes. Use your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure the broth and cheese you use are certified gluten-free. Chickpea or brown rice pasta are great options.
What’s the best way to reheat this pasta?
For stovetop: heat gently with a splash of broth or milk. For microwave: use a microwave-
PrintEasy Lemon Chicken Pasta with Lemon Garlic Sauce
A creamy, zesty, and ultra-satisfying pasta dish made with bow tie pasta, juicy chicken breast, fresh garlic, lemon zest, and a touch of cream. This lemon garlic chicken pasta is quick enough for weeknights, elegant enough for entertaining, and flexible enough for meal prep. Serve hot or chilled, and enjoy with your favorite sides or as a complete one-bowl meal.
- Author: Clara
Ingredients
- 12 oz bowtie (farfalle) pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
Cook the bowtie pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with salt and pepper, and cook until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, reduce heat to medium and add the garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir until the sauce is smooth and slightly thickened.
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and simmer for another 2–3 minutes.
Add the cooked pasta and toss to coat evenly in the sauce.
Sprinkle with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
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Use freshly squeezed lemon juice and zest for the brightest flavor.
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Stir sauce constantly while adding cream to prevent curdling.
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Save some pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.
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Make it vegetarian by substituting the chicken with sautéed mushrooms or tofu.
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This dish can be doubled easily for large gatherings or potlucks.